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Bishop Noel Jones Celebrates 25th Pastoral Anniversary and 50 Years in Ministry

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L.A. Focus Publications

JUNE 2019

Left: Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and wife Avis at the unveiling of the Avis & Mark Ridley-Thomas Life Learning Center; Middle: Councilman Herb Wesson and his wife Fabian at a special Mother’s Day luncheon hosted by Wesson and fellow City Councilmembers Marqueece Harris-Dawson and Curren Price for mothers in South Los Angeles; Right: Councilman Curren Price welcomes residents from the Paul R. WIlliams Apartments—an apartment building that offers 41 affordable housing units — during a housewarming event.

From The Editor “Now Is The Time To Act”

Commentary It’s Time for California to End Predatory Lending

UpFront In Charter School Fight, Urban Leage and National Action Network Ask NAACP: “Did You See The Numbers?”; Senate Approves Bill That Adressess Maternal Mortality, Three Times Higher In Black Women; Looming Showdown In Supreme Court Over Abortion

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Headlines From Africa 17

Feature Story

Money Matters Could Cory Booker’s Baby Bonds Even the Playing Field for Blacks?

Biz News Briefs Byron Allen’s Empire Expands Into Sports

staff Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Staff Writers Production Photographer Advertising Social Media

Lisa Collins Gerald Bell, Keith DeLawder Kisha Smith, Dianne Lugo Ian Foxx, Rickey Brown Leatha Davis Antoinette Banks

L.A. Focus–On the Word, is published monthly. Address all correspondence to: L.A. Focus, 333 W. Florence Ave., Suite C333 Inglewood, CA 90301 • (310) 677-6011 Subscription rates $25.00 per year.

Faithful Central Bible Church

Tasha Cobbs Gets Candid

Lucy McBath Survives Tragedy to Find Her Calling

Guest Chef — Snoop Dogg’s Baby Back Ribs

Pam Grier

What’s Fueling Abortion Debate? (Depends On Who You Ask)

Does Kamala Harris Have What It Takes?

Viola Bangura- Christ Ambassadors Fellowship

Gloria Gray

Met Gala Fashion

Head to Head

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21 First Lady Files Calendar/ Around LA 22 From The Pulpit Eye On Gospel 23 Through the Storm Red Carpet Style 25 In Good Taste One On One Game Changers

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Hollywood Buzz Jason Mitchell Dropped from Various Projects; Marc Lamont Hill Returns to Television; Snowfall’s Bittersweet Return

Church News Bishop Noel Jones Celebrates 25th Pastoral Anniversary and 50 Years in Ministry

Pastor Profile Bishop Noel Jones-City of Refuge

Saving Grace Karimah Westbrook

West Angeles (Senior Pastor: Bishop Charles Blake) is hosting their 26th Annual Golf Tournament on Monday, June 17 at the Chester Washington Golf Course. For more information, call (323) 756-2516

honorary advisors West Angeles C.O.G.I.C. City of Refuge Greater Zion Church Family Southern Saint Paul Church Faithful Central Bible Church Mt. Moriah Baptist Church Mt. Zion MBC Jacob’s Ladder

Bishop Charles Blake Bishop Noel Jones Pastor Michael Fisher Rev. Xavier L. Thompson Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer Pastor Emeritus Melvin Wade Rev. Edward V. Hill II Bishop Robert T. Douglas, Sr

advisory board Napoleon Brandford Pastor Beverly Crawford Lem Daniels Bob Blake

Siebert, Brandford, Shank & Co. Bible Enrichment Fellowship International Church Morgan Stanley Bob Blake & Associates

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Commentary

REV. SHANE B. SCOTT Guest Columnist

It’s Time for California to End Predatory Lending

n Los Angeles, we’ve seen those neon sign store-fronts across the County, advertising fast cash advances for loans above $2,500. These ads promise an easy solution to a financial problem, but the reality is, these loan shark store-fronts operate with a predatory business model that traps distressed borrowers into loans with an interest rate of 100% or even 200%. Unable to make these unaffordable monthly loan payments--and continue to meet essential expenses-families end up in default, often ruining their credit and even having their car repossessed in addition to being burdened with guilt and shame. Sacred texts within the Judeo-Christian tradition are clear. Scripture warns strongly against abusive lending to families in desperate circumstances. Exodus 22:25 states, “If you lend money to my people, to the poor among you, you shall not deal with them as a creditor, you shall not exact interest from them.” God does not want anyone exploited or bound by debt. That is why the late James Cone said, “For the gospel proclaims that God is with us now, actively fighting the forces which would make [humans] captive. And it is the task of theology and the Church to know where God is at work so that we can join him in this fight against evil. In America we know where the evil is.” And I am proclaiming that predatory lending–along with any system that takes advantage of those in dire need–is evil and against the will of God. For nearly three years, predatory lending lobbyists in Sacramento have stymied efforts to push much needed consumer protection laws in California. The predatory lending industry has no shortage of resources in its effort to thwart financial reform. This year is no different–the payday lending industry has hired various lobby firms to do their dealings with lawmakers. This legislative session, however, California families–from Redding to the Inland Empire, from the San Fernando Valley to Bakersfield, the Bay Area and beyond–have allies in Assembly members Monique Limón and Tim Grayson. These lawmakers are pushing forward AB 539, the Fair Access to Credit Act of 2019.

From the Editor

Currently, California has no annual percentage rate (APR) limit for installment loans between $2,500 and $10,000, which gives predatory lenders the opportunity to charge borrowers interest rates of 100% APR or more. AB 539 would change that by applying an interest rate cap of approximately 36% within this range. The bill also proposes a minimum loan term of 12 months and maximum loan of 5 years, and it prohibits any prepayment penalties. This commonsense legislation is a huge step in curbing a terrible lending practice. As a pastor, I and other clergy, frequently are called to minister to families who were vulnerable to high cost loans and found themselves unable to escape the debt trap provided by long-term triple digit APR loans. This debt trap product typically leaves stressed families in a worse financial position than they were before, and it’s widely condemned by community and civil rights organizations, faith and military leaders, and many state and federal lawmakers. Borrowers who take out these loans often face damaged credit scores, wage garnishment, car repossession, bank account closure, and even bankruptcy. As the Trump Administration plans to scale back important federal consumer protection regulations, including eliminating the implementation of the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau’s proposed rule on payday and car-title lending, the need to act against predatory lending is more important than ever. Inaction is not a solution to this serious issue, and it will not go away if we ignore it. If we truly want financial fairness in our communities and an end to the current culture that allows financial abuse to run rampant, passing AB 539 is essential. We must stop these debt trap loans. Californians can’t afford not to. It is the moral and ethical thing to do. Rev. Shane B. Scott is the senior pastor of the historic Macedonia Baptist Church located in Los Angeles, CA.

LISA COLLINS Publisher

“Now Is The Time To Act ”

L.A. Focus/June 2019

ell, we finally heard the voice of Robert Mueller, who broke his silence to say that if he could have cleared Trump of any misdoings in the Russia probe, he would have. Here’s how I read it: Trump is probably guilty as Hell. As House Intelligence Chairman Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) observed, “the obstruction of justice in particular in this case is far worse than anything that Richard Nixon did. The break-in by the Russians of the Democratic institutions, a foreign adversary, far more significant than the plumbers breaking into the Democratic headquarters.” But who in America didn’t already believe that, and more importantly, will it make a difference? I, for one, don’t think it will, and as I about it I can now see why America has such a problem, and to my dismay, my own attitude is part of it. Like many Americans, I have slowly but surely come to believe that Trump can get away with anything and that little can be done to stop him. Afterall, he talks to people as if he’s the schoolyard bully, routinely denigrating other elected officials and even belittling people he’s appointed (and once spoke glowingly about)– particularly former staff. And he gets away with it. He openly threatens people and he gets away with it. He lies incessantly–not to mention the countless human dignities he treads upon daily in a loss of noble gentility the likes of which we’ve never seen–and hope never to see again. And he gets away with it. As a friend of mine pointed out: Barack Obama gave us the hope of what America could be. Trump showed us what America really is. “He has set up a world where it seems as if those disapproving of him can effectively challenge him only by becoming just like him. He’s bringing down the level of the entire playing field,” said famed actor Robert De Niro in a recent New York Times op-ed urging Special Counsel Robert Mueller to speak out. “Here, Mr. Mueller, is where you come in,” De Niro continues. “In your news conference, you said that your investigation’s work “speaks for itself.” It doesn’t. It may speak for itself to lawyers and lawmakers who have the patience and obligation to read through the more than 400 pages of carefully chosen words and nuanced conclusions (with all due respect, as good a read as it is, you’re no Stephen King).” Truth be told, Trump knows how to do one thing right for sure–to stay on message, no matter what. And to a certain extent, if he says something long enough and loud enough, some people begin to believe it. “It would be a mistake to view Trump’s tweeting as merely the expression of mindless urges, even if it often has the self-destructive quality of an addiction,” Nicholas

Carr observed in a January 2018 Politico piece of the tweeting which at that point averaged over 18,000 retweets and 74,000 likes. “Something psychologically darker, and politically more perilous, is at work,” Carr continues. “Twitter has become the flywheel of a potent call-and-response feedback loop that the president commands and can use, seemingly at whim, to manipulate the press and the public. He has learned, as candidate and even more so as president, that certain types of tweets (the abrasive, taunting ones, usually) at certain times of day (the crack of dawn, if you want to set the daily news agenda) tend to produce the biggest, longest-lasting media buzz.” There is a saying, the Devil will flood you with the truth to float one lie. Just as Trump is prone to tout the growth of America’s economy and an unemployment rate at its lowest since 1969 as the key reasons he should be re-elected. In fact, according to U.S. World Reports, the president has overseen a slow but steady economic expansion, albeit one that started under President Barack Obama, though the average worker has barely seen their paychecks grow. As to the low unemployment, that too, started under President Obama. Here’s another economic fact. The federal debt he promised to eliminate within eight years is exploding, so things aren’t all that rosy. Back to my point, like many of you, I’ve done quite a bit of complaining– and bemoaning about Trump–particularly the presidential tantrums that appear more and more dictatorial with each passing day. Yet, I have not written one letter to my representative. have not once called my elected representatives. I have not volunteered in any campaigns to get out the vote. In short, I have not done my part. Talk is just that, when now is the time to act. Now is the time to reclaim values America once held dear. Now is the time to restore civility in our political process. Now is the time to let your voice be heard. If you really want to tell the president what you think, call the White House at (202) 456-1111. You can also call your local and or state representative. To let Senator Kamala Harris know what you think, call (202) 224-3553 or her local L.A. office. You can reach out directly to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi at (202) 225-4965. Keep in mind if you’re not part of the solution, you’re probably part of the problem. Volunteer. Vote. Just do something and always remember to keep the faith.

UpFront

News Briefs

In Charter School Fight, Urban League and National Action Network Ask NAACP: “Did You See The Numbers?”

lack civil rights groups in California are knuckled up in a battle of principles as the state Assembly and Senate prepare to vote on a set of three charter school bills this week. The state chapters of the National Urban League (NUL) and the National Action Network (NAN) have teamed up to oppose the bills. They say the proposals amount to a “step backward” for African-American charter school parents and their children. While the California chapter of the NAACP has publicly expressed its support for all three pieces of legislation; two of them in the Assembly - AB 1505 and AB 1506 - and one in the Senate, SB 756. Members of the California chapter of the NAACP, the nation’s oldest civil rights organization, came to the State Capitol Monday to lobby the legislature on several issues, including the charter school bills. If passed, the laws would put a moratorium on authorizing any new charter schools in the state for the next five years. Critics of the law say they would also significantly restrict the operations and roll back some legal rights the taxpayer-funded independent public schools currently have. “I ask my friends at the NAACP, ‘did you see the numbers?’” Dr. Tecoy Porter, president of the Sacramento chapter of the NAN, told California Black Media. For both the NUL and the NAN, they

say, their difference of opinion with the NAACP boils down to one fact: Black students across California are failing in the state’s district public schools at rates that should cause national concern. Advocates say many of the schools on the frontline that have begun to help Black students improve their literacy, score higher on state standardized tests, and prepare for college and jobs, are charter schools. “African-American children are not doing well in California public schools. There is a severe and persistent Black achievement gap throughout the state of California in both English Language arts and math,” the NAN and the NUL wrote in an open letter to Gov. Gavin Newsom, which the organizations shared with California Black Media. “Seven out of eight African-American public school students are enrolled in district run schools,” the letter to the governor continued. “Many African-American parents respond to this failure by choos-

TANU HENRY California Black Media

ing to send their kids to public charter schools.” This week, local leaders of both the NAN and the NUL are requesting a meeting with Gov. Newsom to share their concerns about the bills. In California, about 80 percent of Black students score below the state standard in math and 68 percent fail to meet the English Language Arts requirement. African-American children are also next to the lowest performing sub-group in the state, scoring only above students with disabilities. Last month, the Assembly passed another charter school bill, AB 1507. It required charter schools to be physically located in the boundaries of the school district that licenses it. Assemblymember Kevin McCarty (D-Sacramento), who is African American and a member of the California Legislative Black Caucus (CLBC), sponsored that bill, along with the other two bills his colleagues will hear this week. Other sponsors of the charter school bills are Assemblymembers Patrick O’Donnell (D-Los Angeles) and Christy Smith (D-Santa Clarita). Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los Angeles) sponsored the Senate bill. O’Donnell, who is chair of the Assembly Education committee, shelved another bill Assemblymember Shirley Weber (D-San Diego), chair of the CLBC, introduced. That bill would have designated lowest performing subgroup stuCharter school debate continued to page 25

Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas Appointed Chair of New Homelessness Task Force In early May, San Francisco announced that their homeless population had increased by 17% over two years. Several counties including Alameda, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside also saw double-digit percent increases in their own homeless populations since 2017 further underscoring California’s homeless crisis. Recognizing the escalating issue, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the formation of a new task force aimed at implementing new programs and getting people off California’s streets. The task force, officially named the Homeless and Supportive Housing Advisory Task, will be co-chaired by Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg and Los Angeles County Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas. The announcement came from Governor Newsom after he toured downtown Oakland’s Henry Robinson Multi-Service Center—a converted hotel that now houses hundreds of homeless individuals every year. The task force will be working with local and regional governments throughout California to identify programs like the Henry Robinson Multi-Service Center and propose ways to implement them statewide, Newsom said. The task force will also provide Newsom with an annual report that outlines the work it performed to help guide the creation of plans to address homelessness. Previously, Newsom had announced a revised budget proposal that included $1 billion directly towards solving homelessness.

Michelle Obama to Headline 25th Anniversary ESSENCE Festival of Culture

Senate Approves Bill That Addresses Maternal Looming Showdown In Mortality, Three Times Higher In Black Women Supreme Court Over he California Senate has approved abject poverty. Black women who are a plan confronting the higher rate non-smokers have worse birthing outAbortion

L.A. FocusJune 2019

of California Black women dying during childbirth than women of other racial and ethnic groups. Senators on a unanimous, 37-0 vote sent to the Assembly Senate Bill 464, the Dignity in Pregnancy and Childbirth Act, by Sen. Holly J. Mitchell. SB 464 would reduce pregnancy-related preventable deaths and associated health disparities by addressing implicit bias among perinatal health providers. SB 464 would establish a training program to help medical professionals identify and correct unconscious or conscious biases and misinformation. The program will also address personal, interpersonal, institutional, structural and cultural barriers to health care access. The bill confronts a profound injustice, unknown to many Californians, that has baffled health professionals until recently. In California, the rate of maternal mortality has decreased 55 percent since 2006. For women of color, however, and particularly Black women, the maternal mortality rate remains three to four times higher than white women do. Although Black women make up only 5 percent of the birth cohort in California, they comprise 21 percent of pregnancy-related deaths. Studies have concluded that disparity is not explained by socioeconomic status, access to prenatal care, education level and general physical health. Middle- to high-income Black mothers have worse birthing outcomes than white women do do in

comes than white women who smoke a cigarette every day. Evidence points to implicit bias as one of the causes for the disparities seen between Black women’s maternal mortality numbers and those of other ethnicities. According to the California Birth Equity collaborative, an initiative at Stanford University’s California Maternal Quality of Care Collaborative, increasing evidence points to racism, within and across multiple levels, and not race, as a key cause of these disparities. A 2016 study by University of Virginia researchers found that white medical students believed biological myths about racial differences in patients, including that Black patients have less sensitive nerve endings, are able to tolerate more pain, and have thicker skin than their white counterparts. SB 464 is supported by a broad coalition from throughout the state, including women’s rights groups, community activists, academics, reproductive rights organizations, and advocates for children and women of color. “California has a responsibility to ensure that all its residents can have safe and dignified pregnancy and childbirth,” Mitchell said. “By preparing perinatal medical providers to better care for mothers in some of the most vulnerable moments in their lives, this bill will preserve lives so that childbirth becomes a joyful moment for all mothers and not a life-threatening event for Black mothers.”

eorgia and Alabama gained national attention after they passed restrictive abortion laws that were quickly met with outrage from activists. In Alabama, the law seeks to prohibit abortions at every stage of pregnancy thus making the state the first to pass an outright ban on abortion. In Georgia, the state passed a bill that bans abortions after six weeks when doctors can start to detect a fetal heartbeat. The two states were not the only only ones to introduce new bills, this year alone, 11 states have passed 16 bills that restrict abortions and challenge the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade ruling that established a constitutional right to abortion. The Alabama and Georgia bills, aside from their shared goal to ban abortion in various ways, share another thing: challenges against the measures are certain to land in federal appeals courts and later, the Supreme Court. The 11th U.S Circuit Court of Appeals has previously seen anti-abortion bills and in the past, they have upheld the Roe v. Wade precedent. Alabama’s law is currently being challenged in a lawsuit the seeks to strike it down before it takes effect on Nov. 15. Georgia’s law will likely see a similar challenge before it takes effect next year. “The lawsuit is coming soon,” assured Sean Young who works as the legal director of the American Civil Liberties Union of Georgia.

Abortion laws continued to page 25

The 25th Anniversary of ESSENCE’s Festival of Culture is coming to New Orleans July 4-7 and the former first lady, Michelle Obama, will be headlining the event. Obama will be joining a line up that includes Mary J. Blige, Missy Elliot, H.E.R and Teyana Taylor. In the announcement, CEO of Essence Communications, Michelle Ebanks, stated that “We are indescribably thrilled and honored to have ‘Forever First Lady’ Michelle Obama as a part of our 25th Anniversary ESSENCE Festival, which will mark our most exciting and extensive programming to date.” The extensive program is clear when you look at the over 80 performers scheduled to perform in addition to more than 10 venues across New Orleans that the festival will span. Her appearance will follow a successful soldout book tour across the country. “As inspiring and aspirational as it is relatable, Mrs. Obama’s story – told on her own terms – is a remarkable example and celebration of everyday Black women who accomplish extraordinary things, who confront challenges with courage and truth, and who remind us that all things are possible when we support one another,” Ebanks added. “Over 25 years, the Festival has done just that – becoming a cultural home for millions of Black women to honor, celebrate and engage each other in service and sisterhood, laughter and love, and empowerment and community.”

HeadToHead What’s Fueling Abortion Debate? (Depends On Who You Ask) hen we talk about "prochild, extended outward to the life" in our national dis- Alabama and world." Georgia cussion about abortion, A society in which sanctity of life is "life" is understood to be about the Abortion Laws respected is a society that appreciunborn child in the mother's on Right Track ates that we are all part of somewomb. But it would serve us well thing larger than ourselves. When to expand our understanding about what we lose this awe, this appreciation for the "pro-life" means. sacred, we disconnect from one another and We should understand that respecting disappear into our separate selves. Love, the sanctity of life is key to the values and marriage, children and our future begin to behaviors in general that sustain and nour- recede. ish all our lives today and create the necesIt's a spiritual sary conditions for our future. tragedy with profound A just-released report from the National and destructive practiCenter for Health Statistics, a unit of the cal implications for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, society. reports that the total number of births in the The Census Bureau United States in 2018 was down 2 percent projects that in 2035, from 2017 and is the lowest number of births for the first time, the in the country in 32 years. number of Americans It also reports that the general fertility over the age of 65 will Star Parker rate – the number of births per 1,000 exceed the number of Americans under 18. women aged 15-44 – was also down 2 perAs society ages, the number of retirees cent and is at a record low. The total fertility per each working American increases – rate needs to be 2,100 births per 1,000 what is called the dependency ratio. women to keep our overall population at We are already seeing the implications steady state – not shrinking. It now stands with huge deficits in our social security and at 1,728 per 1,000 women. Medicare programs, where payroll taxes If the alternative to "pro-life" is so-called finance retirement and health care costs of "pro-choice," the mindset of legal abortion on the elderly. demand, the latter is capturing, and A healthy pushback is starting to occur at destroying, American society. We are choos- the nation's grassroots. ing to extinguish ourselves. States are getting aggressive to stop the It turns out that "reproductive freedom," destructive abortion culture. Most recently, the banner under which "pro-choice" oper- Alabama and Georgia have enacted laws ates, translates into the freedom to not making abortion that is legal under federal reproduce. University of Southern Califor- law illegal in the state. nia demographer Dowell Myers calls the This puts state law on a collision course declining birthrates we are witnessing a with federal law. "barometer of despair." Whether this will wind up at the Birthrates decline, according to Myers, Supreme Court with a revisiting of the Roe when people are not optimistic about the v. Wade decision remains to be seen. future. We should be praying it will happen. How about the general collapse of the The current abortion culture that has marriage institution? been defining America since the Roe v. In 1960, 72 percent of Americans 18 and Wade decision in 1973 is part and symptoabove were married. By 2016, this was down matic of an America whose future is in danto 50 percent. ger. At a conference at the Vatican in 2014, We must fight for restoration of a pro-life Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, former chief rabbi of culture in our country that respects the the United Kingdom, called marriage "the sanctity of life and will restore the American single most humanizing institution in histo- family, children and our future. ry." Star Parker is an author and president of He said that life begins "when male and Center for Urban Renewal and Education female meet and embrace." (CURE). Contact her at www.urbancure.org. "Morality," he continued, "is the love To find out more about Star Parker, visit between husband and wife, parent and www.creators.com.

Headlines From Africa Angola: Separatist fighters in Angola’s oil region of Cabinda, have accused President Joao Lourenço of pursuing the repressive policy of his predecessor José Eduardo dos Santos. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch regularly denounce arbitrary detentions and torture in the area. Burundi: Burundi’s government has continued to defy calls to resolve a political crisis in the country, with the latest order by the Supreme Court for the seizure of assets belonging to opposition activists in exile, being widely condemned. DR Congo: President Felix Tshisekedi has named Sylvestre Ilunga Ilukamba as the new prime minister. The appointment comes nearly five months after Tshisekedi was declared the winner of a December election which is reported to have been marred by irregularities. Ethiopia: Inter-ethnic conflicts have given the country the distinction of having more people who have fled their homes there than in any other nation on earth. About 700,000 people have been displaced by the Gedeo-Guji dispute. Prime minister Abiy Ahmed has promised to reform the system, but until an agreement can be reached on how power can be shared, the violence may not only continue but could get worse. Kenya: Last month Kenya’s high court upheld a law banning gay sex, keeping same sex relations punishable by 14 years in jail in the East African nation and drawing strong criticism from the United Nations and rights activists. Malawi: President Peter Mutharika was narrowly elected to a second term with 38.5% of the vote after stiff competition in the May 21 election and a high court injunction—sparked by concerns of voter irregularities— was lifted. Mali: Mali's president has named a new politically inclusive government after its predecessor resigned last month amid widespread protests over an upsurge of deadly inter-communal violence. Mozambique: Mozambique will host an International Pledging Conference to secure support for reconstruction following the devastation caused by cyclones Idai and Kenneth, which affected about 1.85 million people. Cyclone Idai alone left more than 600 people dead and millions in need.

ews outlets across the counvide legal abortions. Both polls Republicans, try have characterized two also show that most mainline Men & Christians recent bills that effectively Christians agree that abortion Aren't Trying to banned abortions in Georgia and should be available. Although it Ban Abortions. Alabama in a number of ways. is often portrayed as a gender White People Are Some media outlets have painted issue, 57 percent of men and 60 the laws as Republican measures while percent of women support legal abortions, others have painted it as the byproducts of according to Pew. Christian crusaders or the creations of sexMost people are in favor of a woman’s ist men. right to obtain a safe and legal abortion. But the numBut when it comes to politics, the issue bers show it’s really becomes black and white. Three-fourths of not that simple. people who identify as Democrats believe In Georgia, one abortion should be legal, compared to 36 Democrat voted “yea” percent of Republicans, Pew reports. And, and five Republicans while the label of “identity politics” is often voted against the pas- used to describe any mention of race in the sage of the so-called political arena, this is where the dog whis“fetal heartbeat bill,” tle of the GOP’s white identity politics which bans abortions comes into play. Michael Harriot before most women can For decades, the Grand Old Party has know they are pregnant. And despite the used the politics of race to keep their stranassertion that the Living Infant Fairness glehold on the South. Despite ranking and Equality (LIFE) Act is a move by third and sixth among the states in black Christian conservatives, one can safely population percentage, Georgia and assume that most of the people who voted Alabama’s legislatures are overwhelming“nay” are also Christians. ly white and Republican because the Even though a number of reporters and unspoken rule in Alabama and Georgia is activists have noted that only male sena- that the Democratic Party is for black peotors voted for the restrictive Alabama leg- ple and the Republican party is for whites. islation, a woman sponsored the Alabama Whites make up 89 percent of measure, six female lawmakers voted in Republican voters in Alabama and 84 perfavor of the ban and a woman signed the centof Georgia’s GOP voters. In both bill into law. In Georgia, 13 women voted Georgia and Alabama, every single to pass the bill and at least one Democratic Republican lawmaker in the state legislarepresentative in each state supported the ture is white. Alabama only has two white measures. While those numbers represent Democrats in the entire state legislature small minorities, there is one trait that the and two third of Georgia’s Democratic legpeople who voted to effectively ban abor- islators are black. tion in Georgia and Alabama have in comGeorgia’s Republican governor, Brian mon: Kemp, was not only notorious for suppressAltogether, 212 lawmakers voted to ing the black vote in his previous job as pass two of the most restrictive abortion secretary of state, but he and his conservabans in America. 211 were white. tive cohorts used every racially divisive To be fair, this does not mean that tactic in the book including purging voter white people are in favor of outlawing rolls, warning supporters about the disabortion. In October 2018, Pew Research turbing rise in minority voters and outfound that 60 percent of blacks and 61 per- right racism. cent of whites believe that abortions In Alabama, when accused middle should be legal in all or most cases. A school dating enthusiast Roy Moore ran for March 2018 Public Religion Research a Senate seat, the vast majority of white Institute survey found that the majority of women in Alabama (63 percent) voted for both races (62 percent of black Americans him. The state’s politicians inject the prinand 56 percent of white Americans) say ciples of white supremacy in everything there should be a least some health care from religion to school policy to politics. professionals in their community who pro- The state that still celebrates Confederate

Harriot continued to page 22

A look at current news from the continent of Africa Namibia: Namibia has joined with Zimbabwe and Botswana in appealing for the global watchdog, Cites —which prohibits unregulated commercial trade in endangered species—to lift restrictive measures on the trade in raw ivory. Sales of the valuable tusks would raise money for wildlife management. Nigeria: Escalating despondency, depression and misery in the country has described by the Peoples Democratic Party as a national tragedy caused by the All Progressives Congress administration. Lamenting what the party dubbed 'rising social degeneration', the opposition party urged Nigerians to show empathy and brotherly love to one another. The party also ascribed the high incidence of suicide to the depression and hardship under the Buhari-led administration. Rwanda: Tensions between Uganda and Rwanda have been further stoked as the two countries trade accusations following the killing of two men on the border. Somalia: The UN secretary general is attributing an upsurge in bombings and mortar attacks may be an indirect result of the stepped-up U.S. air war on Shabaab targets in rural Somalia. South Africa: Cyril Ramaphosa has been sworn in for a five-year term as South Africa's president, amidst widespread government corruption. "A brighter day is rising upon South Africa," said the 66-yearold newly-elected leader. "The challenges our country faces are huge and real. But they are not insurmountable. And I stand here today saying they are going to be solved." Swaziland: A 24-page report released from the United States Department of State detailed 'human rights issues' across a wide range of areas which included, 'restrictions on political participation, corruption, rape and violence against women linked in part to government inaction, criminalization of same-sex sexual conduct, although rarely enforced, and child labor'. Zambia: A recently announced increase in the monetary policy rate by the Bank of Zambia indicates that Zambia’s economic performance has continued to deteriorate due to fiscal pressures limiting monetary policy interventions. Officials advise that poverty levels will escalate if corrective measures aren’t taken.

L.A. Focus/June 2019

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er rise in American politics has been both strategic and history making, dating back to 2003 when Kamala Harris became the first woman to be ever elected District Attorney in San Francisco, and the first African American woman in California to hold the office. As California co-chair for Barack Obama's presidential campaign, Harris boosted her national profile before mounting her own campaign to become the state of California’s attorney general and in 2010, with the support of House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi, she was elected as the state’s first woman of color to become California’s attorney general, cruising to a landslide re-election victory in 2014. In 2016, with the endorsements of President Barack Obama and ironically enough, then Vice President Joe Biden–who currently leads her in the polls–she made history as the state’s first woman of color elected to the U.S. Senate and only the second black female senator in the nation since Carol Moseley Braun was elected to the Senate in 1993. That same year, an article in the New Yorker Magazine included her among “13 women who should think about running for president in 2020”. The New York Times had listed her among the seventeen most likely women to become the first female President of the United States years earlier and in 2017, she was cited by Cosmopolitan Magazine as one of seven women who could be the nation’s first female president. As a freshman senator, Harris pushed the envelope, becoming highly visible with her condemnation of Trump’s border policy of separating migrant parents from their children, characterizing it as a human rights abuse committed by the United States government that was” against the moral and values of who we are as a nation.” Her high profile and electrically charged grilling of Trump administration officials–including Attorney

LISA COLLINS Editor In Chief General Jeff Sessions– during Senate hearings kept her front and center as she forged key political alliances in the run-up to the mid-term elections and her senate campaign paid the consulting firm responsible for Bernie Sanders branding and digital strategies for messaging that would resonate to a wider audience. All of which appears to have paid off as Harris drew a bigger crowd than Obama for the kickoff of her White House bid as upwards of 20,000 turned out to hear the announcement outside Oakland’s City Hall. (Then Senator Barack Obama drew somewhere between 15,000 and 17,000 for the speech that marked the launch of his 2008 presidential campaign). A CNN Townhall with Oakland native following the announcement was heralded as “the most-watched cable news single-candidate election town hall” ever among the 25-54 news demo. Part of Harris’ appeal is that she is the whole package: pretty, brilliant, focused, down-to-earth, idealistic and at the same time, realistic, no nonsense and yet easy to relate to. She addresses you by name as if you were old friends and seeks to connect with those she meets with a genuineness not readily found in political circles and her star power has made her a hit with Hollywood’s political donors. Truth is she’s hard not to like. The question is, can she win? The answer depends on who you ask. Ironically enough, former House Speaker Newt Gingrich recently told CBS News that he thought California Sen. Kamala Harris was in the best position of the 20 Democratic candidates for president to win the party's nomination. "I think the one most likely to be nominated is Kamala Harris," Gingrich said. "She has California as a base. She is a very articulate and likable person, and I think she represents a new generation in a way that Biden and Sanders are going to be unable to match." Her ability to tap into big-dollar donors in the African American community has demonstrated to political insiders her ability to cultivate a base that she can build on politically as well as financially. The clout African American women are said to carry in the 2020 election may also give Harris an advantage.

If a white man can represent me as a black woman, surely the qualified black women across the country have proven that we’re coalition builders who can represent and serve diverse constituencies very well...

“The numbers clearly show that the real juice for Democrats rests with women of color,” wrote Donna Edwards in a Washington Post op-ed. “No candidate can ignore black women in the primary season and still hope to engage them after winning the party nomination – that won't fly. Black women are the most reliable base of the Democratic Party.” They proved it when they turned out for former president Barack Obama both in 2008 and 2012 and voted at a higher rate than any demographic group. Glynda Carr, co-founder of Higher Heights for America –a national membership-based organization dedicated to electing black women to office– observed that the 2020 election would “forever change how people see what a viable black woman candidate looks like. “If a white man can represent me as a black woman, surely the qualified black women across the country have proven that we’re coalition builders who can represent and serve diverse constituencies very well,” Carr said. "She [Harris] recognizes black women are the absolute key voters to win over and it's a crowded field," said Aimee Allison, whose organization She The People released a straw poll of activists that named Harris the most popular candidate. California political observers, on the other hand, say Harris has a long way to go in even having California locked up as polling has her running third behind Biden and Sanders in the golden state. It hasn’t helped that Senator Dianne Feinstein has thrown her support to Joe Biden and that Pete Buttigieg has been making inroads with Hollywood big-wigs. In short, “nobody is ceding California to Kamala Harris,” said one Democratic strategist. As to the age-old question of will Americans elect a female president. Times are definitely a changing, as more than 100 women were elected to Congress with the 2018 mid-terms; a high-profile run-off in Georgia nearly made Stacy Abrams the state’s first female/black governor and a record-breaking six women have thrown their hats in the presidential race. Just as surely as Hillary Clinton–the first woman to secure a major-party nomination for the presidency– pioneered the path, an onslaught of women’s groups like She Should Run and Emily’s List are recruiting, training and mobilizing women to follow it, fueled by outrage directed at Trump and inspired by women like Harris. Emily’s List, an American political action committee dedicated to electing pro-choice Democratic female candidates to office, says it raised $110 million this election cycle and over $600 million since it was founded in 1985. Harris is advocating for a pre-clearance requirement that would render any change to abortion laws in a covered jurisdiction legally unenforceable until the Justice Department determined that it adhered to the standards laid out in Roe and by the Women’s Health Protection Act. “We cannot tolerate a perspective that is about going backward and not understanding women have agency, women have value, women have authority to make decisions about their own lives and their own bodies,” she stated during a recent MSNBC Town Hall.

Growing in clout, female-focused political organizations like are providing to female candidates, an edge that their male counterparts have long benefitted from: access to a vast network of political donors, high profile media coverage and a massive volunteer base. A 2018 Pew Research Center study found that while 57 percent of Americans thought women brought different strengths than men to leadership roles (43 percent saw the sexes as roughly similar), overall those respondents saw a slight advantage in the female style. As pointed out in a recent Washington Post op-ed, Clinton got clobbered by white voters without college degrees, trailing Trump by almost 40 percentage points in that group sparking a debate over whether economic worries or racism and sexism drove those votes. According to one recent poll, 45% of Americans say that voters not being ready to elect a woman to higher office is a major barrier to female political leadership, up from 37% in 2014. Particular concern is given to rural areas and the Midwest, none of which dissuades Harris. “There has been a lot of conversation by pundits about ‘electability’ and ‘who can speak to the Midwest?’ But when they say that, they usually put the Midwest in a simplistic box and a narrow narrative, and too often their definition of the Midwest leaves people out,” Harris has said. "I think it's really important that we give the American public more credit. And understand that they, at the bottom line, are going to make decisions based on who speaks to their issues, and the things that keep them up at night." Emily’s List p r e s i d e n t S t e p h a n i e Schriock is hardly alone in her belief that the that the narrative has shifted t h i s time

around. “This election is not going to be

about whether the country can elect a woman president, it’s going to be about which woman voters will choose,” she told Newsweek. Erin Cutraro, president of She Should Run, added that having women running against each other at the highest level of political office will “force voters to look beyond gender at the issues.” In some sense, seeing qualified women in positions of power has become the new normal–or at the very least it's starting to be....” Harris– the daughter of a Jamaican-American father and Indian mother– laid out the case to voters of why she should be elected president in her memoir, Truths We Hold, released one month before she announced that she would run. Before getting started she made it a point to say that her first name was pronounced “comma-la” and it means “lotus flower”–a symbol of significance in Indian culture. In it, she writes, “We need to speak truth: that racism, sexism, homophobia, transphobia, and anti-Semitism are real in this country, and we need to confront those forces. We need to speak truth: that, with the exception of Native Americans, we all descend from people who weren’t born on our shores... “We cannot build an economy that gives dignity and decency to American workers unless we first speak truth; that we are asking people to do more with less money and to live longer with less security. Wages haven’t risen in forty years, even as the costs of health care, tuition, and housing have soared. The middle class is living paycheck to paycheck. “We must speak truth about our mass incarceration crisis–that we put more people in prison than any country on earth, for no good reason,” she continues. “We must speak truth about police brutality, about racial bias, about the killing of unarmed black men. We must speak truth about pharmaceutical companies that pushed addictive opioids on unsuspecting communities, and payday lenders and for-profit colleges that have leeched on to vulnerable Americans and overloaded them with debt. We must speak truth about greedy, predatory corporations that have turned deregulation, financial speculation, and climate denialism into creed. And I intend to do just that.” She has also promised to prosecute the case against Donald Trump and his associates if elected. “The evidence supports the prosecution of that case,” said the Howard University grad who served for eight years as an Alameda County courtroom prosecutor. “There needs to be transparency, accountability...There is a lot of work to do, and I plan on seeing it through.” In the meantime, Biden continues to lead among African American voters and women voters, while Sanders leads among younger voters. When while campaigning in New Hampshire, it was suggested that Biden should put Harris on his ticket, Harris had this to say: "I think that Joe Biden would be a great running mate. As vice president, he’s proven that he knows how to do the job.”

ISSUES POSING THE GREATEST CONCERN FOR BLACK VOTERS

Black voters say racism and discrimination is their greatest concern leading up to the 2020 election in poll provided by BlackPAC

MoneyMatters Could Cory Booker’s Baby Bonds Even The Playing Field For Blacks?

ory Booker has a plan to mitigate wealth inequality. A plan he says will not only assist low income Americans impacted by generational poverty, but will create a government-run savings account for every child born in the United States. The plan, dubbed “Baby Bonds,” would result in lower-income kids having sizable cash assets (nearly $50,000 in some cases) that could then be used for college tuition, buying a house or starting a business - with the goal of curbing today’s widening wealth gap. “This proposal is about helping families break through barriers that keep so many Americans from wealth-creating opportunities like higher education and home ownership,” said Booker, who is one of 20 candidates making a bid for the White House in the 2020 election. “Combined with other tax policy changes, like an expansion of the earned income tax credit, this bill will help level the playing field in our country to ensure that every child has a chance to live their version of the American dream.” Booker contends that federal policy and a backward tax code has benefited big corporations and the very rich for decades instead of helping the poor. In states like Washington and Illinois, the poorest paid more than 10 percent in taxes, with some paying as high as 17 percent versus the rich who paid less than 10 percent. “Today nearly one in three American families have zero to negative wealth, and it’s hard to get ahead if you begin life behind the starting line,” Booker said. The bill, called The American Opportunity Accounts Act -- would put $1,000 in an interest-bearing account, and each year would receive an additional $2,000 deposited into their account, depending on one’s family income. The funds would grow by three percent annually in a federally insured account managed by the Treasury Department until the child turns 18. “We are the wealthiest nation on the planet Earth.

On the Money Walmart Ups The Ante for Its Employees in Wages/Benefits

REBECCA GRAZIER Contributor

Don’t tell me we don’t have the money to do something like this when we just kicked up $2 trillion to the wealthiest people in America,” Booker said. The program would require $60 billion a year that Booker says would be funded by increasing taxes on the nation’s richest Americans, restoring the estate tax exemption to its 2009 level of $3.5 million per person. The exemption currently stands at $11.4 million per person. He would also levy an additional tax on the largest estates. “This is an affordable bill that says if you were born in this country, we are going to make a deposit to every kid rich or poor. A thousand dollars in an interest-bearing account, and every year of your life, depending on the size of your family’s income, the next year you get more money. If you add in the power of compounding interest, it’s going to add up, and if you were the lowest income American, you end up with about $50,000 of wealth.” According to the bill that was introduced in December 2018, the monies could not be touched until a child turned 18 and then those funds could only be used to pay for college, buy a house, start a business or save for retirement. A family of four with a yearly income of $25,100 could have an account balance of $46,215 once the child turns 18. Young white Americans would see their net worth rise, as well, to $79,159 from $46,000. “If people can accrue wealth through interest rates and deposit space using the same kind of measures you use for the Earned Income Tax Credit, you could actually create a society of people starting with a fair playing field,” Booker said. “They’d have upwards of $50,000 to go to college, $50,000 to start a business, $50,000 to get training they need to get advanced manufacturing skills. These are the kind of things that are real solutions to our problems, and actually balance out racial scales as well as help all Americans.”

Walmart recently released its inaugural Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) Report detailing goals, progress and achievements for fiscal year 2019 toward their commitment to increase economic opportunity for associates and local communities, build sustainability in supply chains and activate climate change initiatives. You’d be surprised at the findings. Fact is, working at Walmart has gotten a whole lot more attractive. Once criticized for its wages and benefits, Walmart has raised its full-time hourly wage to $14.26 per hour–with starting wages at the nation’s largest private employer rising more than 50% over the last three years. According to the report, its store managers now average a whopping $175,000 a year. Its truck drivers average $87,500 a year with a signing bonus of $5000. And as long as they get degrees in business or supply chain management, Walmart has said it was partnering with three universities to begin offering workers a college education for $1 a day to 1.4 million part-time, full-time and salaried Walmart and Sam’s Club employees (covering the costs of tuition, books and fees. Additional perks to its approximately 2.4 million associates in thousands of communities around the globe include an expansion of maternity and parental leave, quarterly cash bonuses to hourly workers with spotless attendance, foreign language learning and an associate stock purchase plan. Plus all eligible associates — both full- and part-time — have affordable options that include no lifetime maximum and eligible preventive care covered at 100% with coverage for domestic partners available. More than 275 million customers are served annually for $514.4+ billion in total revenues. Here are some highlights:

What Families Would Get

Biz News Briefs Comedian turned entertainment mogul Byron Allen’s media empire just got bigger-- and now includes the world of sports. Allen, who last year made the historic $300 million purchase of The Weather Channel, joined Sinclair Broadcast Group as a minority investor to purchase the 21 highly sought-after regional sports networks from Walt Disney Co.-- in an acquisition deal worth $10.6 billion. In the deal Allen’s company Entertainment Studios will purchase four local stations from Bayou City Broadcasting for $165 million which will give them ownership of the CBS affiliate station WEVV, NBC affiliate KLAF, and Fox affiliates WEEV and KADN. “This is another milestone for our company, as we have now agreed to purchase our very first broadcast television stations and continue to look for other opportunities to grow our global media company through strategic acqui-

L.A. Focus/June 2019

Byron Allen’s Empire Expands Into Sports

sitions,” said Allen in a statement. The 21 regional sports networks were put up for sale by Disney who was required to do so by the Department of Justice no later than June if they wanted to close their $71.3 billion merger with 21st Century Fox, due to antitrust concerns. The intense bidding war for the networks included computation from O’Shea “Ice Cube” Jackson Sr.’s Big3 League who made an offer for the networks with the backing of Magic Johnson, LL Cool J, and Serena Williams.

Mary Winston Appointed Interim CEO of Bed Bath & Beyond Bed Bath & Beyond has announced that Mary Winston has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, making her the first black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company since Ursula Burns stepped down as the CEO of Xerox two years ago. "This is an important time for Bed Bath & Beyond and we are committed to being the leading omnichannel retailer of choice for the home and heart-felt life events,” said Winston. “Together with the Board, including the members of the Business Transformation and Strategy Review Committee, the leadership team and our more than 60,000 associates, I look forward to building an even stronger future for Bed Bath & Beyond. As we continue to

review our business initiatives, we will be focused on driving continued margin improvement, enhancing the instore and online experience, and accelerating our transformation to the benefit of our shareholders, customers and other stakeholders." Briefly: LeBron James has partnered with Walmart and Sam’s Club for the Fight Hunger, Spark Change campaign to help America secure a billion meals for local food banks. “Partnering with Walmart is about the commitment to the community. Walmart has done so many great things all over the world, but, it starts in their hometown of Bentonville, Arkansas–the same as me starting in my hometown of Akron, Ohio. We don’t forget where we come from”…Fans of the Grammy nominated rapper and South L.A. community advocate Nipsey Hussle have rallied in support since his tragic passing on March 31st, with his clothing company The Marathon Clothing netting over 10 million in sales since his death… Finally, Skanska, Traylor, Shea have shown their commitment to providing significant contract opportunities to small, minority, and women owned disadvantaged businesses in the $240 million the company has paid to small, minority, and women owned businesses performing work on Metro’s Westside Purple Line Extension Phase I and the Regional Connector Transit Corridor projects over the last five years.

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5424

Housing Crisis Sparks “Yimby Movement”

rom South Los Angeles to Oakland to Long Beach and beyond, California’s historically black neighborhoods are being hit hard by the housing crisis. In community organizations, churches, and family functions, we hear stories of how neighborhoods are turned upside-down by displacement and gentrification. Unfortunately, the California dream is becoming a nightmare for a growing share of African Americans who are locked out of the abundant opportunities available in our state due to a lack of affordable housing options. At California YIMBY, we’ve been working to make sure that the people in Sacramento hear what we’ve been feeling in communities of color for decades: a disparity in housing opportunities for black and Latino families. We’re also working diligently to contribute to the solution with reforms at the local, regional, and state levels that could ensure housing equity isn’t just a catch-phrase for debate, but an actual principle and practice in how our communities grow. There’s no denying the depth of the crisis. In Los Angeles, we’ve learned that over 30% of people experiencing homelessness are African American - despite making up just 9% of the population. In Oakland, the black population has fallen from its high of 47% in 2000 to 31% today - a loss of 27,000 African Americans during that time. The reality hidden behind these numbers don’t just happen on their own. Inaction and, at times, intentional efforts to change the complexion of neighborhoods lead to these results. A history of racial redlining - the practice of legally prohibiting black families from living in certain neighborhoods - established long-standing patterns of neighborhood segregation that continue to this day. Indeed, Berkeley, California, the home to a rich history of black activism, pioneered the practice of drawing lines around neighborhoods of single-family homes and saying “No Blacks Allowed.” From this historic and abhorrent practice, one can draw a straight line to the wealthy, exclusionary, single-family home neighborhoods scattered throughout California today. These neighborhoods have reaped the benefits of our state’s remarkably strong economy while shutting out people of color from access to those same opportunities. How have they done this? By banning apartment buildings, duplexes, fourplexes, and other types of “starter homes” that are affordable to the majority of middle and lower income Californians. It is literally illegal to build multi-family housing across large swaths of many California cities. In parts of Los Angeles, the small apartment building you live in today - built before the down-zoning trend of the 1970s - could not be rebuilt legally. California YIMBY (YIMBY stands for “yes in my back yard”) is engaged across our state in efforts to reform these outdated local rules that inhibit access to opportunity for all Californians. Our motto is “California is for Everyone,” because we believe there’s plenty of room in California for everyone to pursue their dreams - especially those of us who have been prevented from doing so by centuries of racist and exclusionary policies. Right now, our biggest push for reform is through Senate Bill 50, the More HOMES

VINCENT JONES Guest Contributor Act. The bill, which has the support of nonprofit housing developers, unions, environmental groups, and the Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce (among many others), would essentially tear down the invisible walls built around many California cities and communities by creating more four-unit apartments affordable to workers like teachers and nurses across the state, while providing for larger apartments for families and lower-income workers next to our transit services and in areas with high concentrations of jobs. The More HOMES Act also has provisions that prohibits developers from evicting current tenants and demolishing buildings in order to build luxury developments, by creating the strongest renter protections ever offered by the state. It creates a mechanism for sensitive communities - neighborhoods at high risk of gentrification and displacement - to determine additional ways to increase affordable housing options, and gives them control over their futures through long-range planning. And it has the first-ever statewide requirements for below-market-rate affordable housing, set aside for those who earn low incomes. Last year, a group of prominent civil rights leaders and scholars praised similar legislation for its potential to reduce racial disparities in access to affordable housing in areas with the kinds of jobs, schools, services, and other amenities that we’re all worthy of enjoying. After all, we all paid for these amenities. We all deserve to enjoy them. That’s what we mean when we say California is for everyone - not just those with access privileges, but all of us who call the Golden State our home. Unfortunately, Senator Anthony Portantino, who represents a district known for being exclusionary, is trying to subvert the democratic process by denying a vote of the full State Senate on the legislation - a vote that is critical for the bill to conintue through the process of being debated and improved by the legislature. Ironically, Senator Portantino’s solution for the housing crisis is to issue a vanity license plate that raises money -- not to create more housing, but to raise awareness about the housing crisis. No legislation is perfect. The legislative process, when it works well, is intended to lead to a result that can work for many. The More HOMES Act is the product of many orgs and community leaders across the state weighing in with their thoughts and ideas. It deserves a vote. Learn more about YIMBY and the More Homes Act at www.cayimby.org/generations and join us in this fight.

Game Changers: Gloria Gray

n her career of nearly fifty years of public service, Gloria Gray– Chairwoman of the West Basin Municipal Water District (WBMWD) – went from being hired as a stenographer to being responsible for providing water to hundreds of thousands of Los Angeles residents-- breaking numerous barriers for women of color along the way. In January, Gray added a new “first” to her extensive public service career as she became as she became the first African American woman to be elected for the twoyear term as Board of Directors Chair of the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, which delivers water to 300 cities and unincorporated areas in Southern California. A longtime resident of Inglewood, Gray is dedicated to her service as WBMWD Division II Director representing Inglewood and unincorporated areas of Athens, Lennox, and south Ladera Heights in providing citizens with its most valuable, and often overlooked resource. “Safe drinking water is important to every community-- especially in disadvantaged communities,” says Gray, who advocates for community consciousness when it comes to their water supply. “People think that water will always be there, like it just appears magically. But really, water reliability is a major issue when you consider that we live in a desert where 30% of our water is brought in from Northern California and 25% is brought in from out of state. We cannot assume we will always have the ability to transport water when anything could impact our supply, such as climate change or natural disaster.”

Gray’s long and unlikely journey to becoming one of the most influential water policy makers in the state is one she herself never anticipated. After being recruited as a stenographer for the city of Los Angeles while still in community college, Gray found her way into the County Department of Health Services (DHS) -- moving her way up the system in her 36 year career until she became the top secretary of DHS, L.A. County’s largest department. One of her jobs at DHS was in community relations as a liaison on health issues, where she made relationships with community leaders and elected officials-- many of whom would go on to prominent national positions like Maxine Waters and Karen Bass. It was late South L.A. community activist Lillian Mobley who encouraged Gray to get into policy making. “She saw my heart in the sense that what I really wanted to do was to help people,” says Gray. “To me, that's what community service is-- you're there to help folks improve their lives in whatever way that you can do it. When folks would ask me for help, I could pick up a phone and call somebody and connect them.” Gray won a seat on the Inglewood School Board where she served two terms and became active in the Democratic Party where she was on the Executive board of the County Central Committee-- all the while working her most important job raising two daughters as a single mother. Through her work with the local Democratic Party, Gray met former Gardena mayor Don Dear who recruited her to hold office once again-- this time in a

department she knew little about-- water. Like most of us, Gray knew very little about the process of providing water to the people of Los Angeles when she was first recruited in 2006. “I just assumed that water is just there,” recalls Gray. “You turn on your faucet it’s safe, clean and reliable.” Despite not having a background in water policy, Dear convinced her that the WBMWD needed someone with her background to represent the people of south L.A. Gray became convinced to run for the position after touring a local recycled water plant. “I learned about how important recycled water is to making sure that we have a reliable supply, and the need to develop a local water project,” says Gray. Gray would go on to win her seat and three years into the job was tapped for a statewide water policy position at the Delta Stewardship Council, this time by future Congresswoman Karen Bass. The Delta Stewardship Council was formed to create policy on the complicated issue of the Bay Delta-- where the Sacramento River meets the San Joaquin River in Northern California and provides 30% of southern California’s water supply. The Delta Stewardship Council has the important job of addressing the environmental concerns that pumping water creates, so that we can strike a balance between providing water without harming the natural ecosystems in place. “I was honored that Karen Bass, who was Speaker of the House at the time, appointed me to the board which made me the first woman of color on the statewide

KEITH DELAWDER Staff Writer

board,” says Gray. In every position she’s held, Gray has been successful by collaborating with the network of experts she’s built and always keeping an open mind. “Respect, transparency, and collaboration have been very important to me as I’ve been able to move forward in my career,” says Gray. “I believe that if you listen, you can always learn. When you think you know everything, that’s narrow-minded.” While Grey may have not imagined all she would accomplish when she was just a stenographer in community college, her message to other young women of color is to seek out opportunities and prepare yourself so that when something comes alon, you’re ready. “You may not think that you can do it, but you can. I didn’t know what I was doing but I had faith that I could do it right. So honestly, just do it.”

Calendar of events

Ongoing Exhibition: “Ernie Barnes, A Retrospective” Known for his “neo-mannerist” elongated forms, Barnes created some of the 20th century’s most iconic images Also “The Liberator: Chronicling Black Los Angeles, 1900-1914” (Thru September 8) Tues-Sat: 10am — 6pm; Sun: 11am — 6pm Free/Parking=$12) California African American Museum 600 State Drive Info: (310) 676-7300 caamuseum.org Soul of A Nation: Art in The Age of Black Power (Thru September 1) Free/Advance Reservation: $12-18 • Open Tues - Sunday 221 S. Grand Avenue Info: (213) 232-6200 www.thebroad.org

Sunday, June 2 Bishop Noel Jones 25th Anniversary Celebration (Through June 28) June 2: Bishop Kevin Adams (11AM)• Bishop

T.D. Jakes (6PM Service) June 9: Bishop George Bloomer (11AM) •Dr. Walter Malone (6PM) June 23: Bishop Liston Page (11AM)• Bishop Clarence McClendon (6PM) • Friday, June 28 Gala Dinner: Bishop Kenneth Ulmer (7PM) 14527 S. San Pedro Street Gardena, 90248 Info: (310) 516-1433 www.cityofrefugela.org

Thursday, June 6 Presentation: Living A Brain Healthy Lifestyle Ways to reduce your risk of getting dementia Free • Noon — 1:30PM Hawthorne Public Library 12700 Grevillea Avenue Contact: (800) 516-5323 Connect.uclahealth.org In Concert: DJ Quik $34-$58 • 6pm The Rose 245 E. Green Street Pasadena wheremusicmeetsthesoul.com

Friday, June 7 Jennifer Lopez: It’s My Party (Thru Saturday) 8PM • $54 - $499 The Forum 3900 W. Manchester Blvd Contact: (310) 330-7300

L.A. Focus/June 2019

Regina King turned up the heat on the red carpet at last month’s Met Gala in New York City.

(ceny Black lain Barr nica with p a h C ate Mo U.S. Sen st AME Santa Kemp ir Herman & ter) at F rd o F en eb u Pastor R

www.fabulousforum.com West Angeles COGIC’s Sisters Conference Convener: DeAndra Blake • Speaker: Dr. Sylvia Reid Free • June 7: 7PM • June 8: 9:30AM -3PM North Campus 3045 Crenshaw Blvd Info: (323) 733-8300 Westa.org An Evening with Kool & The Gang (Special program celebrating the group’s 50th anniversary) $30 • 7PM Grammy Museum 800 W Olympic Bl (213) 765-6800 www.grammymuseum.org

Saturday, June 8

2301 N. Highland Avenue Contact: (323) 850-2000 www.hollywoodbowl.com

call (800) 399-4529) lalawlibrary.org/classes

Tuesday, June 11

In Concert: Lisa Fischer & Grand Baton (Through Sat., June 15) Check show times and ticket prices The Catalina Jazz Club 6725 West Sunset Blvd. Contact: (323) 466-2210 www.catalinajazzclub.com

AARP CAREversations: A Family Caregiving Event Explore local caregiving resources 6PM • Register online Harold & Belle’s 2920 W. Jefferson Blvd Info: (866) 740-6947 local.aarp.org Free Help With Clearing Criminal Records Free • 5:30PM — 8PM L.A. Law Library 301 West 1st Street Call: (213) 785.2529 (If interested,

Saturday, June 15 “Smokin’ Grooves” 2019 Featuring Usher, Common, Erykah Badu, Daniel Caesar, Ella Mai and more 11AM • $150 - $4,600 The Queen Mary Park 1126 Queens Highway Long Beach Info: (800) 928-2181

Playboy Jazz Fest Lineup includes Terrence Blanchard, Kool & the Gang, Sheila E., Patrice Rushen, Bela Fleck & the Flecktones, Boz Scaggs, Maceo Parker and more M.C.: George Lopez (Through Sunday, June 9) EVENT SPOTLIGHT 3PM + • $25 Monday, June 17 $196 28th Annual NAACP Theatre Awards The Hollywood Honorees include Herb Wesson, Viola Davis and Condola Bowl Rashad Hosted by Loni Love 5PM — 11PM • $200 Millennium Biltmore Hotel 506 S. Grand Avenue Naacptheatreawards.com

Diddy wit h daughte Chance a rs D’Lila nd Jesse Star, James at Ladylike the Annu Foundati al on gala.

d at the s off her buff bo Halle Berry show apter 3– Ch : ick W n oh “J L.A. premiere of Parabellum”

Wednesday, June 12

F. Gary Gray, director of upcoming “Men in Black: International” received his star on the Walk of Fame Photo credit: Eric Charbonneau for Sony Pictures.

You can’t say Cardi B doesn’t know how to make a dramatic entrance. Here she is on the red carpet at the Met Gala last month in New York City.

(L-R) City Council president Herb Wesson, Mayor Eric Garcetti, Supervisor Mark Ridley-Thomas and Urban League president Michael Lawson turn out for the dedication ceremonies for Barack Obama Boulevard.

Opening Night at the Bowl with John Legend 8PM + • $690 - $12,300 The Hollywood Bowl 2301 N. Highland Avenue Contact: (323) 850-2000 www.hollywoodbowl.com Book Signing: Evelyn Lozada: “The Perfect Date” 1PM • Free The Grove 189 The Grove Drive Contact: (323) 525-0270 Barnesandnoble.com Juneteenth Celebration DJ sets and family activities, including wearable art, quilting, drum rhythms, ancestor masks and designing your family tree Ages 7 and up • 1PM — 4PM•Free (Parking = $12) African American Museum 600 State Drive RSVP: (213) 744-7432 http://caamuseum.org LAULYP: Finding Your Ancestors (Thru Saturday, Jun 29) by Los Angeles Urban League Young Professionals LAULYP Members and

friends will be provided with genealogical instruction and research skills in a three-part workshop. 4401 Crenshaw Bl #201 Info: (323) 299-9660

Sunday, June 16 17th Annual HUF Awards and Scholarship Brunch Presented by Judge Mablean • 12PM-4:00PM $100 (Adults) $10-45 (Children) Long Beach Hilton Hotel 701 W. Ocean Blvd Long Beach 90831 Info: (323) 445-6669 www.hufawards.com

Monday, June 17 Jam Session: Afro Cuban Dance Free • 7PM John Anson Ford Theatres 2580 Cahuenga Blvd East Contact: (323) 461-3673 www.fordtheatres.org

Tuesday, June 18 Annual Salute to Black Music Awards Dinner Presented by the Black Business Association Honoring Vicki Mack

Lataillade, Byron J. Smith and Lisa Collins 6PM • $175-$350 California African American Museum 600 State Drive Contact: (323) 291-9334 www.bbala.org

Thursday, June 20 BET Experience 2019 Featuring concerts, comedy, film screenings, seminars, exhibits, Celebrity Basketball Game, Celebrity Meet & Greets and more, culminating with the BET Awards (Through June 23) Check pricing and dates Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (213) 742-7100 www.bet.com In Concert: Mary J. Blige With special guests H.E.R., Queen Naija, Summer Walker & Bri Steves 7pm • $25 - $120 1111 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (213) 742-7100 Staplescenter.com

Hearing loss causes, treatment options and updates on current hearing aid technologies Free • 1PM — 2:30PM Oasis Baldwin Hills 4005 Crenshaw Blvd — (Macy’s 3rd Floor) Contact: (800) 516-5323 Connect.uclahealth.org

www.csbclb.org

In Concert: Meek Mill, YG, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie and Blueface (BET Experience) 7pm • $30 - $130 1111 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (213) 742-7100 Staplescenter.com

Bishop Joe L. Ealy’s 10Year Gala First Jurisdiction of Southern CA 11AM — 2PM • $100 Long Beach Events Center 4101 East Willow Street Long Beach Info: (562) 599-1190

Saturday, June 22 No Regrets Men’s Conference “Live Life On Purpose” Hosted by Pastor Welton Pleasant • With Pastors George Hurtt, Elton Johnson, L.A. Kessee, Dr.Frederick Haynes III and more 8AM • $45 (before June 16) • $50 1471 Martin L. King Jr. Ave, Long Beach Info: (562) 599-3421

In Concert: Cardi B, Migos, Lil Yachty, Lil Baby and Triple Redd (BET Experience) 7pm • $0 - $139 1111 S. Figueroa Street Contact: (213) 742-7100 Staplescenter.com

Monday, June 24 Help With Becoming An Adult’s Legal Conservator Free • 10am — 1pm L.A. Law Library 301 West 1st Street Call: (213) 785.2529 lalawlibrary.org/classes

Tuesday, June 25 In Concert: Khalid With special guest Clairo (Thru Wednesday, June 26) 7:30pm • $0 - $100 1111 S. Figueroa Street

around los angeles Friday, June 21

Discussion: Hearing Loss

Special Needs Network president Areva Martin is flanked by (L-R) Vivica Fox, Tina KnowlesLawson, Robin McGraw and Holly Robinson Peete at Martin’s Annual Pink Pump Affair.

by his wife Jada Will Smith is joined y and daughter Pinkett-Smith, son Tre premiere of ood llyw Ho the Willow at ” din “Alad

Wednesday, June 26 GLAAAC 20th Anniversary Ed Fund Scholarship Reception 5:30-8:30PM • $150+ CAAM 600 State Drive Info: (323) 292-1297 Glaaacc.org

Friday, June 28 West Hollywood’s 19th Annual Diversity Employment Career Day Fair Nationally-recognized and top local employers meet and interview qualified candidates from multicultural and diverse communities 11AM — 3PM • Plummer Park 7377 Santa Monica Blvd citycareerfair.com

Sunday, June 30 Day of Ancestors: Festival of Masks Features a libation, procession and a lineup of dance and musical performances Leimert Park Village Plaza 4343 Leimert Blvd

Gabrielle Union and her husband Dwayne Wade were a united fro nt at the Met Gala last month in New Yor k City.

L.A. Focus/June 2019

lks the red carpet at Octavia Spencer wa r ere of the new horro mi the Hollywood pre e titl the ys pla she movie, “Ma” where character.

Contact: (213) 742-7100 Staplescenter.com

Eye On Gospel Tasha Cobbs Gets Candid

Anthony Brown Soars To #2

Grammy winner, and top-selling worship artist Tasha Cobbs Leonard is set to launch Candid, a series of empowering and ground-breaking events for women. Taking the ‘girls bunch’ concept to a new level, Cobbs Leonard will host the first Candid, an exciting brunch event this month in Atlanta. Cobbs Leonard aims to offer an inviting, and open forum to inspire and encourage women to understand their potential and live their best lives! Whether it’s launching a new business, or pursuing a passion, Cobbs Leonard wants women to tap into the possibilities, and understand that now is their time to reach for their dream. The series will bring together the best from entrepreneurs and creative’s to philanthropists and influencers to share their stories and strategies in an intimate and fun setting. “I wanted to take the true meaning of the African proverb ‘it takes a village to raise a child’ and support the ‘village’ in that statement – women represent the village in our communities,” Cobbs Leonard said. “We [women] support our husband, raise our children, create our own business, mentor future generations - that often times we miss the opportunity to inspire ourselves and show up for US. I wanted to create a safe space where we can do just that.” Like every good brunch, there will be good food, great conversation and lots of laughs. Tasha invited her personal village of amazing women to join her at the inaugural Candid brunch. The incredible line up of speakers includes legendary Yolanda Adams; Real Housewives of Atlanta co-star Marlo Hampton; Kierra Sheard and actress Deborah Joy Winans.

Grammy® Award nominated act, Anthony Brown & group therAPy, debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s Gospel Digital Song Sales chart with the sizzling hot, feel-good groove, “Blessings on Blessings”. The track also entered the Billboard Hot Gospel Songs hybrid (combining sales, streams and radio airplay) chart at No. 11 while climbing from No. 28 last week to No. 20 on this week’s Billboard Gospel Airplay chart. The Maryland-based group brightens the catchy track with a booming bass line and a hint of the DMV’s homegrown, percussive Go-go rhythm. Brown’s raspy roar is upfront, leading his singing flock like a pied piper of positive affirmations. “Blessings on Blessings is my personal anthem for this year,” says Brown who wrote the tune. “I believe that the power of death and life is in your tongue, so what you say really matters. I’m only speaking blessings for the rest of the year.”

RedCarpet Style

The Return of Maurette Brown-Clark Stellar Award winning and Dove Award nominated singer-songwriter, Maurette Brown Clark, returns with her first release in four years, “I Want God”. The rousing

ballad debuts at No. 6 on this week’s Billboard Gospel Digital Song Sales chart. The song’s earnest message and compelling vocal are true to who she is as an artist. “My intent has always been and still to this day, is to chase after God,” says Brown Clark who is best-known for spiritual anthems such as “One God” and “It Ain’t over (Until God Says It’s Over),” a No. 1 smash. “I never entered music ministry for any other reason than to try to tell people about Jesus. He found me, saved me, sticks with me and has certainly blessed me beyond what I deserve. At the end of the day, stuff is good, recognition is good, things are good; but at the heart of the matter, all I've ever wanted was Him.” In other gospel news, Stellar-award nominated artist, worship leader and restaurateur Micah Stampley just released his newest highly anticipated single, "Fire & Rain". According to Stampley, "The timing was not right for this song until now." He continues, "I believe this will be a song that takes the world by storm and minister change to those that listen. The intensity, passion and lyrics were birthed through experience, and that changes everything. Now is the time!" "Fire and Rain" is a prelude to his ninth project– an EP with songs that are made for dancing and worship.…Gospel phenom Bri Babineaux, who boasts over a half million Instagram followers, is headed to New Orleans to record her sophomore gospel album, The Encounter. Bri’s special performing guests will include Billboard gospel chart topper Todd Dulaney, as well as cutting-edge praise and worship leaders such as Psalmist Raine, Dante Bowe and Alicia HardyMontgomery. The newly married 24-year-old Lafayette, Louisiana resident – who was named “New Artist of the Year in 2017”–had a hand in writing all of the new music with an array of collaborators with roots in CCM, Gospel and the Praise & Worship music genres. “These songs have been a major encouragement to me,” Bri says. “I know they will bless others as we encounter the presence of God in a new way and transform our lives.”

It is the premiere fashion red carpet event and everyone on this dazzling pink carpet is there to make a statement. And oh, boy, do they make a statement.. Here are some of the standout looks from this year.

CIARA REGINA HALL JANELLE MONAE cha nell ed Cher in this daring turned heads in this ornate Gucci was a standout in this custom em era ld green stunner. gown for her first Met Gala. Christian Siriano outfit.

LAVERNE COX is stunning in this black Christian Siriano gown.

TIFFANY HADDISH sparkled in this silver/black Michael Kors pantsuit.

INSIDE HO L LY W OOD with Neily Dickerson Summer Recommendations Summer is upon us and it’s time to round up the family for some quality Netflix & Chill time. There is a lot to watch so grab a pen and compare your list to what I’ll be watching over the next few months. Since its Black Music Month, at the top of my list are music flicks. I’ll start with this month’s release of “Beats,” starring Anthony Anderson and Uzo Aduba from “Orange Is The New Black.” Other musical documentaries, series and specials you might want to check out if you haven’t are: “Turn Up Charlie” starring Idris Elba, “Quincy,” “Mr. Dynamite: The Rise of James Brown,” “The Two Killings of Sam Cooke: A Sam Cooke Story,” “Nat King

Cole - Afraid Of The Dark,” and “The Evolution of Hip Hop.” If you aren’t in a musical mood, check out “Juanita”, staring Alfre Woodard and Blair Underwood, “Someone Great” with Gina Rodriguez, and “See You Yesterday.” If you need a laugh there are several

shows that will give you a good chuckle. There’s Kevin Hart, Wanda Sykes, and Adam Sandler who gets an honorable mention. One of my faves is a silly cooking show called “Nailed It.” Some series you may have missed on network or cable TV are: “The Last O.G” featuring Tracy Morgan and Tiffany Haddish, “Good Girls”, “Black Lightning”, and “All American” featuring, Taye Diggs and Daniel Ezra. And no, I have not lost my mind, I didn’t mention Beyonce’s “Home-coming” because I figured you’ve all seen it, but I do NOT want to get stung by the Beyhive and just in case you haven’t seen it, be sure to check it out. It’ll have you dancing or at least trying to.

DUE IN THEATERS THIS MONTH

HOLLYWOOD BUZZ

The Secret Life of Pets 2 June 7

Men In Black International June 14

Marc Lamont Hill Returns to Television

Marc Lamont Hill is returning to television with a new morning talk show on BET. Hill will join the daytime talk show circuit with a new show called “Black Coffee” starting Monday, June 3. The show was originally revealed last month at Viacom’s NewFronts presentation and it will launch across ET, YouTube, Twitter, BET Now App, and BET.com. Hill was formerly a commentator on CNN before the network severed ties with Hill in November following comments he made about Israel during a speech delivered at the United Nations. Soon after he delivered the speech critics accused the speech of being anti-semitic. Since then, Hill has continued to work as a professor of media studies at Temple University in Philadelphia. According to BET, “Black Coffee” will be a halfhour daily talk show for viewers to keep up to speed with “Black Twitter’s buzziest conversations” and will also feature interviews with celebrities, athletes, and media stars. In the announcement Hill added that “BET Networks has been home to me for many years, and I

Shaft June 14

am proud to expand our partnership with this innovative series. I look forward to galvanizing the Black community on our platforms and encouraging dialogue that moves the culture forward.”

Jason Mitchell Dropped from Various Projects In 2015 Jason Mitchell found his big break in “Straight Outta Compton” where he played the late NWA member, Eazy-E. Since then, Mitchell has starred in movies like “Mudbound.” “Kong: Skull Island,” and “Detroit.” More recently, Mitchell has been playing the lead role, Brandon, on Lena Waithe’s Showtime show “The Chi.” The show, currently airing its second season, was recently renewed for a third season. Mitchell will not be a part of it. Instead, following accusations of misconduct, Mitchell was terminated from “The Chi” as well as the upcoming Netflix movie “Desperados,” where he was allegedly involved in an off-set incident during its production. Mitchell’s agency, manager, and lawyer have also dropped the actor. Recently, sources have told the Hollywood Reporter that his conduct was also a problem for at least two actresses on “The Chi.”

The Last Black Man In San Francisco — June 14 The conduct persisted, according to the report, despite complaints and HR training. In addition to Mitchell’s firing from various projects, the MTV Movie & TV Awards announced that they had rescinded the actor’s nomination in the Best Performance in Show Category. Mitchell has since been replaced by Lamorne Morris in “Desperados,” which is still being filmed.

A Bittersweet Return Singleton’s “Snowfall”

for

John

A new trailer has dropped for Season 3 of FX’s “Snowfall.” The crime drama series is set in Los Angeles in the early days of the first crack epidemic and explores the impact that the event had on the city by following several key characters and their lives. The trailer reveals that the latest season will take place in the summer of 1984 as the drug continues to spread like wildfire across the city and police struggle to try and take control. The third season, originally announced in September, will return July 10. Its return will be a bittersweet one as it comes just months after the unexpected death of its creator, director, and executive producer, John Singleton. Singleton passed away after suffering a stroke on April 17. Singleton remained a coma until he was taken off life support April 28. Following Singleton’s death his coexecutive producers and stars of the show took to social media to honor the star and remember his legacy. Trevor Engelson, another executive producer, said “Everybody is sad but everybody also is moving forward because that’s what John would’ve wanted,” shortly after Singleton’s death.

Q&A

ALLISON KUGEL Contributor Photo: ABC/John Fleenor

Pam Grier Hometown: Winston-Salem, NC Big Break: “Coffy” (1973), “Foxy Brown” (1974) Current Projects: “Bless This Mess”, “Poms” Upcoming Projects: “Pam Grier Biopic” If you were to ask any director who's worked with the legendary Pam Grier they would likely tell you that having Pam on their set is a game changer. She knows what she wants and what she brings to the table. Just stand back and watch the force that is Pam who has made it clear that clinging to her perfectly proportioned black Barbie superhero past doesn't interest her. It's a lovely time capsule that will be well documented in a biopic about her life based on her autobiography, Foxy. These days Pam is focused on roles that represent mature, well rounded women living their authentic lives. Allison Kugel: Is Bless This Mess your first time doing a network sitcom? There was one with Michael J. Fox that was short lived, but this was the first one where it allows me to work with creatives like [the show's creator] Elizabeth Meriwether and [actress and co-creator] Lake Bell. I said to them, "Out here as country women, we take our Spanx off." I took my Spanx off and I did some chores before I came in to see them [for the role]. I was a little dusty and I smelled of barn and John Deere fuel. I smelled the part, so that helped. Allison Kugel: How are you now processing going through the different stages of life? In certain cultures, if you are not a standard size 4 or 6 you're not considered attractive. There are psychological aspects towards that. The younger, slimmer and more youthful looking you are, the better for child bearing and maybe you're thought to be more sexual or whatever. I love the fact that people do respond differently when I am a size twelve than when I am a size four; completely different dynamic and really interesting to me. Allison Kugel: Are you comfortable in your skin at any weight? At any weight. I can gain weight and lose weight, if I have to, for whatever reason. I remember when I was meeting with Spike Lee for a role while I was still doing Frankie and Johnny. When he saw me with weight on, he said, "Wow! You're a little bit heavier than I thought. Are you okay? Are you sick?" He didn't know I was doing a play. I told him it was appropriate for the character, and that it's working. I didn’t want people to come and see someone skinny and exotic looking and have them not see and hear [my] work. Allison Kugel: You've been in show business 50 years? Fifty years, plus. Allison Kugel: Is there any type of role you wouldn't take on, because it's not in your wheelhouse? I was sexually attacked and raped at the age of 6, and then again at 18 in college, and then there was a third attack that I fought off. I couldn't believe what was happening. I didn't understand it. But I know that I cannot portray that in a movie, because I don't want to revisit those moments and emotions. Allison Kugel: You are thought to be the first AfricanAmerican female to headline action films. Where is the next Pam Grier? Probably out there limping, as I did. They got hurt and said, "Don't wanna do that again!" I was a gymnast and I skied; I ran track. Anything to keep from doing One On One continued to page 22

ChurchNews Bishop Noel Jones Celebrates 25th Pastoral Anniversary and 50 Years in Ministry he City of Refuge is commemorating the 25th Pastoral Anniversary and 50th Year of Ministry and 50th Year of Ministry of their senior pastor, Bishop Noel Jones with a monthlong lineup of festivities featuring some of the biggest names on the religious circuit today and culminating with a “Silver Anniversary Dinner Gala”. Guest speakers include Bishops T.D. Jakes, George Bloomer, Clarence McClendon, Liston Page and Kenneth Ulmer. The celebration is set to kick off on Sunday, June 2 with Bishop Kevin Adams at 11am and Bishop Jakes keynoting the 6PM service. The theme is “The World is His Pulpit.” Said Jones, “The world is my pulpit simply means I don't have to be in any one place. I can live in a place, but I preach all over the world from Russia to China and Japan. Jones said he wanted to use his 25th anniversary to launch an annual leadership conference. For more on Bishop Jones, see our pastor profile on page 18.

City Council President Herb Wesson Dedicates Archbishop Carl Bean Square Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson designated of the intersection of Jefferson Blvd. and Sycamore Ave. as “Archbishop Carl Bean Square” last month for the founder of Minority AIDS Project and the Unity Fellowship Church Movement, America’s first affirming and welcoming Black church for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender persons. “Through his activism Carl Bean pioneered how we treat, educate and advocate for one of the most significant health crises of our time and he did it with a focus and passion for saving Black lives,” said Wesson. “He did this during a time when the resources and attention were focused on white gay men and not communities of color. Beyond his work with Minority AIDS Project, Carl Bean’s leadership spirit led him to create the Unity Fellowship Church Movement, the first Black church affirming and welcoming of the LGBT community. This honor is long overdue and I’m excited that for decades to come, his legacy will be preserved for future Angelenos to learn and celebrate.”

Los Angeles City Council President Herb Wesson, Unity Fellowship Church of Christ Senior Bishop Zachary Jones, West Hollywood Mayor Pro Tem Lindsey Horvath, Reverend Elders Russell Thornhill and Leslie Burke.

L.A. Focus\June 2019

In other local church news, West Angeles is going live with applications on its website for The Curve @ West Angeles, a new senior apartment complex located on a .52 acre site in the Park Mesa Heights along the Crenshaw Corridor. The affordable mixeduse development with 70 apartments for low and very low-income seniors includes studio and one-bedroom apartments, a resident lobby, a 1,059 square foot community room with kitchen, a 784 square foot central courtyard, common area laundry facilities, bike lockers and bike repair room. The Curve–located at 5414 Crenshaw Boulevard– is a joint venture partnership with West Angeles Community Development Corporation and is set to open this fall.

Agape Church of Los Angeles Worship Center Consolidated Plaza: 3725 Don Felipe Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90008 Corprate Office: 4602 Crenshaw Blvd, Suite 2A, Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 295-5571 www.agapela.org Bishop Craig A. Worsham, Founder & Senior Pastor Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Loving, Lifting & Liberating Humanity Through The Word Bethel Missionary Baptist Church of South L.A. 10905 S. Compton Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90059 (323) 566.5286 Pastor Reginald A. Pope Sunday School: 9:30am Morning Worship: 8am • 11am Children’s Church: 11am (2nd/4th Sundays) Evangelism Training/Bible Study/Independent Prayer: (Mon): 7:29pm Mobile Prayer/Bible Study: (Wed) 11am Book by Book Bible Study (Wed.): 6:30pm

Bryant Temple AME Church 2525 W. Vernon Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90008 (323) 293-6201 • F: (323) 293-0082 Pastor Dwaine Jackson Sunday School: 8:15am Morning Worship: 9:15 am Bible Study (Tues): Noon Pastor’s Bible Study( Tues): 6:00pm

God’s Faithful Disciple of Jesus Christ / Prayer Clinic & Deliverance Ministry P.O. Box 561368, Los Angeles,CA 90056 (323)293-7566 • www.gfdjc.org•gfdjc@att.net Dr. Ruby Cottle, Pastor & Teacher G.F.D.J.C Every Friday: 7:00pm -9:30pm Location: St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church 3901 West Adams Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90018

Grant AME Church 10435 S. Central Avenue • Los Angeles, CA 90002 (323) 564-1151 • F: (323) 564-5027 Rev. Dr. J. Arthur Rumph, Senior Pastor Reappointed to Grant AME Church Los Angeles Rev. Dr. James A. Rumph

Sunday School: 8am Worship: 9:30am Wed. Bible Study: 11:30am •6pm

Grace Temple Baptist Church 7017 South Gramercy Place, Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 971-8192 Rev. Rodney Howard Sunday L.I.F.E Group: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:30am Wednesday Intercessory Prayer: 6:30pm Wednesday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm E-Mail: gtbcla@gmail.com

Calvary Baptist Church 4911 W. 59th Street,Los Angeles, CA,90056 (323)298-1605•F: (310) 568-8430 • calvarybaptistla.org Rev. Dr. Virgil V. Jones Sunday Prayer: 8:30am Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study: 12:00pm & 7:00pm We are the Church on the Hill where the Light Shines Bright!

Grace United Methodist Church 4112 West Slauson Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 294-6653 • F: (323) 294-8753 • graceumc1@earthlink.net Rev. Dr. Cedrick Bridgeforth, Pastor • www.graceumcla.com Early Morning Worship: 7:45am Sunday School (all ages) : 9:45am Morning Worship: 10:45am Tues. Mobile Prayer: 6:15am Wed. Bible Study: Noon Follow us on Facebook

Christ The Good Shepherd Episcopal Church 3303 W. Vernon Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90008 (323) 295-4139 • F: (323) 295-4681 Rev. Edith Oloimooja Sunday School: 10:00am Early Worship: 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:00am Mon. Centering Prayer/Meditation: 6:30pm Mon. Overeaters Anonymous: 7:00pm Wed. Bible Study & Eucharist: 7:00pm Wed. Alcoholic Anonymous: 7:00pm E: cgshepherd4041@sbcglobal.net

Greater Ebenezer Baptist Church 5300 S. Denker Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 759-4996 Rev. DeNon Porter Early Worship: 8am Sunday School: 9:30am Mid-Morning Worship: 11am Radio-KALI 900AM: Sun. 11-Noon, 7-8pm KTYM 1460AM Sundays: 5:30pm Bible Study (Tues, Wed & Thurs): 7pm

Congregational Church of Christian Fellowship 2085 S. Hobart Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 Phone: (323) 731-8869 • F: (323) 731-0851 www.christianfellowshipla.org Pastor James K. McKnight Sun. Early Worship: 8:00am Prayer Meeting: 10:30am Morning Worship: 11:00am Wed. Afternoon Bible Study: 1:00pm Wed. Prayer Meeting: 6:00pm Wed. Evening Bible Study: 7:00pm View Pastor McKnight’s Sermons on YouTube

Holman United Methodist Church 3320 W. Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 703-5868 • www.holmanumc.com Bishop Warner H. Brown, Jr., Senior Pastor

Crenshaw Christian Center 7901 South Vermont, Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 758-3777 • F: (323)565-4231 • www.faithdome.org Apostle Price, Founder

Living By Faith Fellowship Ministries Church Address: 8946 Sepulveda Eastway, L.A., CA 90045 Executive Office: 10925 Crenshaw Blvd,#107, Ing.CA 90303 (424) 313-7520 Bishop Horace A. Allen Sunday Worship(East): 8:00am Sunday School(West): 9:30am Worship Service(West): 11:00am Word Explosion(Wed/West): 7:00pm Prayer every Monday(West): 7:00am Service Locations

Sunday Service: 9:45am Bible Study (Tue): 11:00am & 7:00pm Tue. Night Children’s Ministry: 7:00pm Tue. Night Bible Study (Teens): 7:00pm Alcohol & Drug Abuse Program (Wed): 7:00pm

Sunday School: 9:30am(Youth) & 9:45(Adult) Sunday Worship: 8am and 11am Morning Worship: 11:00am Bible Study (Thurs.): Noon Sun. Radio: KJLH 102.3FM: 11:00am

Gather, Grow,Go and Live The Gospel of Jesus Christ!

(East: 7510 S. Vermont Ave,•Los Angeles,CA 9004 (West: 8946 Sepulveda Eastway•Inglewood, CA 90303)

First AME Church (FAME) 2270 South Harvard Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-1251 • F: (323) 735-3353 • www.famechurch.org Pastor J. Edgar Boyd, Senior Pastor/CEO Sunday School: 10:00am Worship: 8:00am, 10:00am, Noon Teen Church (2nd Sundays):Noon,Allen House Wed. Prayer Service: Noon Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm Radio: 10:30am on KJLH-102.3FM First AME is the oldest Black Church in the City

Mount Moriah Baptist Church of Los Angeles, Inc. 4269 South Figueroa St. Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 846-1950 •Fax: (323) 846-1964 Reverend Johnteris Tate-Pastor Sunday Church School: 8:00am Worship Service: 9:15am Baptist Training Union: 7:00am Tues. Bible Study/Prayer:Noon & 7:00pm

Mt. Sinai Church 3669 W. 54th St. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 291-1121 F: (323) 291-1133 • office@sinai.church • www.sinai.church George E. Hurtt, Pastor-Teacher Sunday Worship: 8:00am, 10:00am Noonday Prayer (Mon): 12:00pm Tuesday Night in the Truth: 7:15pm Noonday Bible Study(Wed): 12:00pm Radio: KKLA 99.5 FM (Sat): 9:00pm

Park Windsor Baptist Church 1842 W. 108th St. Los Angeles, CA 90047 (323) 756-3966 • RevTerrellTaylor@sbcglobal.net Rev. Terrell Taylor Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Bible Study Wednesday: Noon & 7:00pm Communion: 1st Sunday at 8:00am & 11:00am

Please call for our Sunday School & Discipleship Schedule

Our Goal: To glorify God by winning more Christians and developing better Christians (Matt. 28:18-20) Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church 1300 E. 50th Street Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 235-2103 • F: (323) 235-3177 • www.mtzionla.org Dr. Edward V. Hill, II, Pastor Sunday Intercessory Prayer: 9:15am Morning Worship: 9:30am Children’s Church: 9:30am Sunday School: 11:30am Baptism: 2nd Sun. & Lord’s Supper: 1st. Sun. Tues. Pastor’s Bible Study: 6:30pm Wed. Noon-day Prayer: Noon

People’s Independent Church of Christ 5856 West Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90043 • (323) 296-5776

Sundays: Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study & Mid Week Worship: Noon & 7:00pm Prayer Meeting: 6:30pm

Southern Saint Paul Church 4678 West Adams Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 731-2703 • smbc@smbcla.org Rev. Xavier L. Thompson, Senior Pastor/Teacher Corporate Prayer: 8:30am L.I.F.E. Groups: 9:45am Morning Worship Service: 11:15am Baptism & Communion (First Sunday): 4:00pm Pastoral Bible Study (PBS)Wednesdays:7:00pm North Campus: Worship Service: 8:00am 11137 Herrick Av • Pacoima 91331 (818) 899-8031 st.paul@smbcla.org •“Loving People Making Disciples” St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church 5017 S. Compton Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90011 (323) 231-1040 • stmarkmbcofla.org Reverend Dr. Lovely Haynes, Pastor Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Sunday School: 9:30am Mon-Wed Corporate Prayer: 6:00 - 6:55 pm Monday Night Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Noon Prayer: 12 Noon Wed. Exposition of Sunday School Lesson: 7:00pm

CHURCHES CELEBRATING ANNIVERSARIES AND REVIVALS OR OPPORTUNITIES

Westminster Presbyterian Church

SUMMER FOOD SERVICE PROGRAM

Celebrate Our 115th Anniversary With Us! —1904-2019

Dare U to Care Outreach Ministry announces sponsorship of the Summer Food Service Program. Our organization will be serving food at the following addresses during the hours listed for lunch beginning 6/10/2019, between the hours of 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.:

Highlights: July 7, 2019 – 3:30pm: Soprano, Philura Williams in Concert Sat, October 12: “Longevity In Faith” Seminar with Rev. Dr. Barbara J. Essex: 11am - 3pm Sunday, October 13: Worship Service — Rev. Essex 11am 115th Anniversary Concert - • 3PM “DLW” (Don Lee White) Community Choir, Dr. James M. Calhoun, Director Followed by Concert Repast — Light fare

1904-2019

Westminster Presbyterian Church 2230 W. JEFFERSON BLVD. • LOS ANGELES, CA. 90018 TEL. (323) 734-1566 • FAX (323) 734-0364 EMAIL: info@wpcofla.org • WEBSITE: wpcofla.org REV. CARLTON A. RHODEN, PASTOR New Antioch Church of God in Christ 7826 So. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90044 (323) 778-7965 Elder Jeffrey M. Lewis Sunday Early Morning Worship: 8:00am Sunday School: 9:30 am Morning Worship: 11:00am Tuesday Prayer and Bible Band: 11:00am Wednesday Bible Study: 7:30pm Wednesday in the Word: 7:30pm One Church Potter House 614 N. La Brea Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90036 (818) 763-4521 • www.onechurchla.org Sr. Pastor Toure’ Roberts Sunday Worship: 9:00am, 11:00am & 1:00pm Wednesday Midweek Service: 8pm www.Channel1Live.tv–View live streaming

1014 W. 120TH ST. LA. CA. 90044 701 E. 88TH PL., L.A., CA 90002 5879 BRENTWOOD ST. LA. CA. 90003 6900 COMPTON AVE LA. CA. 90001 10441 ANTWERP ST. LA. CA. 90002 4207 CARLIN AVE. LYNWOOD, CA. 90262 8929 S. FIGUEROA ST. LA. CA. 90003 1801 E. 53RD ST., L.A., CA 90058 1108 N. CULVER AVE. COMPTON, CA. 90222 961 W. ALONDRA AVE LA. CA. 90220 700 W. LAURALE COMPTON, CA. 90220

“In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. “To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Adjudication and Compliance, 1400 Independence Avenue S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (202) 260-1026, toll-free (866) 632-9992, or (202) 401-0216 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. “If you have any questions please contact: Claudia Quan, 323.920.7860 or 310.386.7918

Pleasant Hill Baptist Church 2009 W. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90062 (323) 293-6448 • F: (323) 293-6605 Dr. Sylvester Washington Sunday School: 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:00am Tues. Bible Study: 11:00am Wed. Evangelism Class: 6:30pm First Sun. Holy Communion Service: 4:00pm www.pleasanthillbaptistchurch.org

Praises of Zion Baptist Church (“Praise City”) 8222 So. San Pedro Street, Los Angeles, CA 90003 (323) 750-1033 • F: (323) 750-6458 Dr. J. Benjamin Hardwick, Sr. Pastor Early Morning Worship: 6:45am Educational Hour: 9:15am Mid-Morning Worship: 10:45am Wed. Bible Study: Noon & 7:00pm Sunday Morning Broadcast: 5:30am Live Streaming Sundays: 12:00pm http://www.pozlive.com

Price Chapel AME Church 4000 W. Slauson Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90043 (323) 296-2406 • pricechapel@sbcglobal.net Rev. Benjamin Hollins Sunday Worship Service: 10:00am Sunday School: 8:30am Power Lunch Bible Study (Wed): 11:00am Praise & Worship Bible Study (Wed): 6:30pm

St. Matthew Tabernacle of Praise “The S.T.O.P.” 1740 West 59th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90047 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 56608, Los Angeles, CA 90056 (323) 291-1115 • F: (323) 293-0471 Rev. C.Barry Greene, Pastor Sunday Worship Service: 8:00am PrayerLine: (Tuesday & Wednesday): 6:00am WordLine (Tuesday): 7:00pm ( (712) 775-7031 Access Code: 814352108) E: thechurchstop@yahoo.com pastorcbgreene@aol.com St. Rest Friendship Baptist Church 709 W. Manchester Ave., Los Angeles, CA,90044 (323)752-6179•strestfriendshipglobal.net Rev. Torrey Collins, Pastor Sunday School: 9:00am Morning Worship:10:45am Bible Study(Tues):7pm Choir Rehearsals(1st & 3rd Wed.): 7pm

The Sanctuary Church of Refuge 888 S. Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323)519-2341 • Sanctuarycor@gmail.com Pastor Markees Williams Sunday School: 9:30am(Youth) & 9:45(Adult) Sunday Worship: 8am and 11am Morning Worship: 11:00am Bible Study (Thurs.): Noon Sun. Radio: KJLH 102.3FM: 11:00am

Gather, Grow,Go and Live The Gospel of Jesus Christ!

L.A. Focus/June 2019

Paradise Baptist Church 5100 S. Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 231-4366 Pastor Darryl Barnes Adult Life Sunday School Study: 8am Sunday Worship Servie: 9:30am P3 - Pray, Praise & Partake (Fri before 1st Sunday) Mission Bible Study(Wed): 12:00pm Women’s Bible Study(Thurs.): 7:00pm New Life Bible Study(Sat.): 9:00am

ATHENS PLACE AVALON GARDENS EVENING STAR CHURCH FULL GOSPEL BAP CHURCH GONZAQUE VILLAGE LYNWOOD METHODIST MESSIAH MISSIONARY CHURCH PUEBLO DEL RIO THE DOUGLAS APT TOMORROW AERONAUTICAL WILMINGTON ARMS

West Angeles Church of God In Christ 3045 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016 (323) 733-8300 Bishop Charles E. Blake Sunday School: 8:00am & 10:30am Early Worship: 8:00am Morning Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship (North Campus): 7:00pm Wed. Mid-Week Worship: 7:00pm Sun. Radio Broadcast KJLH 102.3FM: 10am www.westa.tv

Lifeline Fellowship Christian Center In Altadena 2556 N. Lake Ave., Altadena, CA 91001 (626) 797-3585 • F: (626) 797-3233 • www.lifelinefcc.org Pastor Charles D. Dorsey Sunday School: 9:00am Early Worship (Glory Prayer): 8:00am Morning Worship: 10:30am Evening Worship (1st & 2nd Sun.): 5:00pm Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm

Trinity Baptist Church 2040 West Jefferson Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90018 (323) 735-0044 • F: (323) 735-0219 Rev. Alvin Tunstill, Jr Sunday Worship: 7:30 & 10:30am Sunday Church School: 9:00am Radio Broadcast KJLH FM: 9:00am Wed. Prayer & Bible Study: Noon-7:00pm www.trinitybaptistchurchofla.org

Resurrection Church L.A. 1135 East Janis St., Carson, CA 90746 Office Address: 1143 East Janis St., Carson, CA 90746 (310) 626-4864 •www.resurrectionchurchla.org

Victory Baptist Church 4802 South McKinley Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90056 (323) 231-2424• Pastor Dr. W. Edward Jenkins Sunday School: 10:45 am Morning Worship: 9:00am Bible Study Wednesday:Noon Radio Sundays: KPRO 1570AM: 9:00pm

Weller Street Baptist Church 129 S. Gless St, Los Angeles, CA 90033 (323) 261-0949 • F: (323)264-6601 • www.wellerstreetlive.com Pastor K.W. Tulloss Sunday School: 8:00am Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00am Tues. Bible Study: 6:45pm www.wellerstreetlive.com “We have not walked this way before” Joshua 3:1-6 Peace Apostolic Church 21224 Figueroa Street, Carson, CA 90745 (310) 212-5673 Suff. Bishop Howard A. Swancy

In Carson

Pastor Joseph Carlos Robinson Worship Services: 8:00am & 10:00am Bible Study Tuesdays: 7:30pm

Citizens of Zion Missionary Baptist Church In Compton 12930 No. Lime Ave., Compton, CA 90221 (310) 638-0536 • F: (323) 636-2080 • www.citizensofzion.org Rev. Bobby Newman, Jr., Senior Pastor; Rev. B.T. Newman, Pastor (Pastor Emeritus) Sunday School: 9:00am Morning Service: 10:45am Wed. Mid-Week Bible Study: 7:00pm First United Methodist Church Compton 1025 S. Long Beach Blvd • Compton, CA 90221 (310) 639-0775 • Fax: (310) 639-1161

Dr. Arnetha E. Inge, Pastor Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Worship: 11:45am Evening Worship: 6:30pm Wed. Noon Day Bible Class: 12:30pm Wed. Bible Class: 7:30pm

Sunday School: 8:30am - 9:30am Sunday Morning Worship: 10:00 - 11:45am TONGAN Worship: 1pm (2nd & 3rd Sunday: 7:30am - 10:30am Bible Study (Wednesday) 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Pastor Profile: Bishop Noel Jones Church: City of Refuge How Long at Church: 25 years Years In Ministry: 50 Hometown: Spanish Town, Jamaica Family: Divorced, 3 adult children What was the plan when you first came to City of Refuge (then Greater Bethany) and how has it evolved? Looking 25 years back, it is not always easy to remember the plan. [TV One founder] Cathy Hughes said when the banker asked her about her business plan, she simply said to him, "I plan to succeed." The issues surrounding the church were significantly important because the church was insolvent–about to go into bankruptcy and the pastor had been sick and then died. So, the initial plan was for financial stability.

the problem with the black church is that each individual has suffered for so long economically, that churches now begin to hoard and become exclusive in their dealings so that each individual leader looks out for him or herself. So, it's like they become a kingdom in their own. Well, because the word kingdom is associated with the body of Christ, it becomes more that they're seeking to have an empire. Like the Greeks had city-states, we have church empires, and each individual church now becomes its own incorporated conglomerate and because each is seeking its own, the community suffers. The church suffers because if you're not community-based and united… And if you can't leverage your clout, you have no clout. You have no substantive sustainability...and when you say church you're talking about pastors because the way the congregants go is contingent on the pastor's thought. Why do you believe so many flock to your church? Because of the way I think, essentially. How would you characterize that? Very inclusively. Because I know my own flaws, I have a tendency to be extraordinarily forgiving, extremely generous and very vulnerable in that I am very open. My thought pattern is to express a message based primarily upon the grace of God and maybe in many instances to cover myself. Understanding grace–understanding that I'm not perfect, so I seek to be genuine, and that is very attractive to people. One of the problems we have in the pulpit is operating as if we are perfect, that God speaks absolutely to us and we never miss His voice. In many instances, we become extremely judgmental and we're all flawed. So consequently, when you're genuine...

Growth seemed to come really fast... Growth was phenomenal. I ended up having to do four services on a Sunday.

Do you think most pastors try to hide their flaws? Yes.

What was the response from other pastors? Because people from other churches wanted to come, I became an anathema to the pastors in those churches, so they began to preach about me from the pulpit. The mistake they made was that it was advertising. Everybody would come to see who they were blasting. The thing in my favor was that I would never ever use my pulpit to fight my fellow pastor because no one of us has it all. My idiosyncratic concept of God cannot be duplicated or imitated. Everybody has got a piece of the puzzle. The problem with the black church today (and I hate to say black or white), but

And that's to their detriment? Of course, and I'll tell you why. Most people think that if your congregants believe you have flaws that they will not respect you, but that's not true. I did the show [Preachers in L.A.] at the chagrin of many of my friends, but what I wanted to prove or to show was to reduce the iconoclastic disposition people had towards leaders. To show that in our own personal lives, we have strug-

L.A. Focus/ June 2019

And to its glory days? Yes. When I came in, the church was down to 40 people in bible class. And it was tricky because now you had people who had left, people who were there and people were just waiting for me to come when they heard I was coming. The good thing about it was that Bishop McMurray gave me an insight as to the problems and people. It was like the godfather talking to Michael Corleone as he was about to take over. Once we were stable, the next question was how we would relate to our community. There's absolutely no way to have just church when you have one-third of our boys in the system, teenage pregnancy and drugs rampant, prostitution–both boys and girls, education lacking, gangs increasing… For three years, I stayed across the street just to get the feel of the community.

gles, and we have difficulties. I didn't mean for it to go as far as it did. Was it a mistake? Absolutely not. I believe I proved my point–just that I was the center of the point I was proving. Do pastors today need to be tied to denominational foundations or to be dynamic leaders? You need a mixture of both, because if it's personalitydriven unless the guy coming behind you is dynamic or is a superstar kind of a guy, there's going to be a drop [in membership]. So, you need a hybrid simply because you also need to have people who appreciate ministry other than the institution. If it's totally institutional [or denominational], then Donald Duck would be a pastor. It really wouldn’t matter. I'm sure pastors come to you all the time asking your advice on how they could grow their church, be more dynamic or what your secret is. What do you tell them? I tell them that whatever I say to them is not to make you like me. Even though many try to be like you… Yes, and I discourage it. See, most people who imitate you, only imitate your style but they don't imitate your study habits, because they don't have a clue. So while they can imitate the delivery, they can't imitate how you grasp the content. From the mechanical aspect of preaching, my advice is: be who you are. Of course, I had influences. I have a particular affinity to the English scholars but s o m e American scholars like Paul Tillich and others. continued to page 25

Greater Zion Church Family 2408 North Wilmington Avenue, Compton, CA 90222 (310) 639-5535 • (Tues - Thurs 10am -4pm)

First Lady Files

Crusade Christian Faith Center 801 S. La Brea Avenue, Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-8535 Bishop Virgil D. Patterson Sr.

Viola Bangura

Christ Ambassadors Fellowship

Dr. Michael J. Fisher, Senior Pastor Sunday Worship: 8:00am|10:45am| 5:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12pm|7:00pm FB: GreaterZion IG: GZCFamily www.gzcf.us

Love and Unity Christian Fellowship 1840 S. Wilmington Ave, P.O. Box 5449, Compton 90220 (310) 604-5900 Fax: (310) 604-5915 Dr. Ron C Hill Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:30am Sunday Evening Worship: 6:30pm Bible Studies: Wed. 7:30pm & Sat. 9am Food for Your Soul Radio & Television Ministry: beblessedwebradio: Mon - Fri. 6:30am Church Channel: Tues. 5:30pm & Fri. 2:30pm

The City of Refuge 14527 S. San Pedro Street, Gardena, CA 90248 (310) 516-1433 Bishop Noel Jones

In Gardena

Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:00pm Bible Study (Wed): Noon & 7:00pm BET/Fresh Oil (Wed): 7:00am

The Liberty Church 14725 S. Gramercy Place, Gardena, CA 90249 (310) 715-8400 Pastor David W. Cross Early Worship: 8:30am Morning Worship: 9am & 11am Children’s Church: Both Services Word Power Wed.: 7-8pm www.thelibertychurch.com

Atherton Baptist Church 2627 W. 116th Street Hawthorne,CA 90250 (323) 757-3113 • www.athertonbc.org F: 323-757-8772 • athertonbaptist@sbcglobal.net Pastor Larry Weaver

In Hawthorne

Sunday Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00 am Sunday Bible Enrichment Class: 9:45am Mon.-Thurs. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wednesday Bible Study: 12:30pm & 7:00pm Victory Institutional Baptist Church 4712 West El Segundo Blvd., Hawthorne, CA 90250 (310) 263-7073 • www.vibconline.com Pastor Richard Williams, III Sunday Morning Worship: 9:00am Sunday Evening Worship: 6:00pm Wed. Mid-Week Worship: 7:00pm Bible Study Tuesday: Noon & 7:00pm

Bible Enrichment Fellowship International 400 E. Kelso, Inglewood, CA 90301 In Inglewood (310) 330-4700 • www.bamcm.org Dr. Beverly “BAM” Crawford Morning Worship: 9:30am Tues. Bible Study: 7:30pm Wed. Mid-Week Prayer: 5am, Noon & 7:00pm Wednesday Pathway: 7:00pm Thurs Bible Study: 10:00am Sat Marriage & Family Prayer: 7:30am

Blessed Family Covenant Church 325 North Hillcrest Blvd, Inglewood, CA, 90301 (310)-674-0303 • F: (310)-674-0303 • blessedfamilycovenant.org Rev. Wendy Howlett Sunday School: 8:30am Morning Worship: 9:30am Wed. Prayer & Bible Study: 7:00pm

Wed. Mid-Week Service: 7:00pm Sunday School: 9:00am Sunday Worship: 10:30am

Church of God Center of Hope 9550 Crenshaw Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 757-1804 www.go2Hope.com Pastor Geremy L. Dixon Morning Worship: 8:00am & 11:00am Wed. Mid-Week Service: Noon Wed. Teaching Ministry: 7:00pm 1st Sunday Communion 5th Sunday Baptism

Faithful Central Bible Church 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301 (310) 330-8000 • F: (310) 330-8035 Bishop Kenneth C. Ulmer, Ph.D. Senior Pastor/Teacher Services at The Tabernacle: Sunday Services: 7:00am, 9:30am & 11:45am Wed. Mid-Week Service: 7:00pm The Tabernacle is located at 321 N. Eucalyptus Ave., Inglewood www.faithfulcentral.com

Jacob’s Ladder Community Fellowship, inc. 1152 E. Hyde Park Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90302 (866) 330-1702 • F: (310) 674-0760 Watchman/Shepherd Dr. Robert T. Douglas Sr. Sunday Fresh Start & Prayer 9:00am Sunday School: 10:00am Morning Services: 11:45am Evening Service: 7:00pm Wed. Lock & Load Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Bible Study: 7:30pm 3rd Friday Youth Night: 7:30pm www.jacobladderschurch.com New Mount Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church 434 S. Grevillea, Inglewood CA 90301 (310) 673-6250 Office • (310) 673-2153 Rev. Dr. Phillip A. Lewis, D. D., D. Th., Senior Pastor Early Worship: 8:00am Sunday School: 9:30am Morning Worship: 11:00am Mid-Week Bible Study (Wednesday): 7:00pm Afternoon Bible Study (Thursday): 1:00pm

True Friendship Missionary Baptist Church 7901 South Van Ness Ave. Inglewood, CA 90305 (323) 750-7304 Rev. James A. Perkins

Antioch Church of Long Beach Mailing address P.O. Box 2291, Long Beach, CA 90801 website:www.antiochlb.com

In Long Beach

Pastor Wayne Chaney Jr. Sunday Worship Services: 10:00am Long Beach Poly High School 1600 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, Ca 90813

Christ Second Baptist Church 1471 Martin Luther King, Jr., Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-3421 • Fax: (562) 599-6175 • www.csbclb.org Rev. Welton Pleasant II, Senior Pastor Sunday School: 8:30am Sunday Worship Service: 9:40am Wed. Bible Study: 7:00pm Wed Youth & Young Adult Ministry: 7:00pm

Family of Faith Christian Center 345 E. Carson Street, Long Beach, CA 90807 (562) 595-1222 • F: (562) 595-1444 Bishop Sherman A. Gordon, E.D. Min

Sunday School: 9:30am Early Worship: 8am Morning Worship: 10:45am Bible Adventure Hour (Tues): 6pm Bible Study (Tues): 7pm Bible Study (Thurs): Noon

Christ Our Redeemer AME Church In Irvine 45 Tesla, Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 955-0014 • F:(949) 955-0021 • www.corchurch.org Pastor Mark E. Whitlock, II Sunday Worship: 8:00am, 10:30am New Generation Praise Service: 10:30am Sun. Bible Univ.: 9:30am Tues. Interactive Bible Study: 7:00pm Wed. Pastor's Bible Study: Noon, 7:00pm Thurs. Bible Study: 7:00pm Fri. Singles Bible Study (1st Fri): 7:00pm St. Stephen Missionary Baptist Church 1720 N. Walnut Avenue, La Puente, CA 91744 (626) 918-3225 • F: (626) 918-3265 Pastor Tony Dockery

First Lady Viola Bangura of Christ Ambassador’s Fellowship International lives by the motto, “true greatness is serving others”, and helping people is what has fueled her ten years of service at their Inglewood church. “Making a change in the lives of people is what I like best about being a first lady,” says Bangura. “I can see the difference we’ve made. I serve by God’s Grace. It’s not an easy job, but it’s fun. I love it.” She met her husband Pastor Minkail Bangura when she was just a teenager in her native country of Sierra Leone. He led her to Christ and together they attended Bible College before moving to the U.S. Married 28 years, the couple has two children, ages 26 and 19. While services are stylistically the same in Sierra Leone, the level is not. “Back home people are more dedicated 24/7,” said Bangura. “L.A. has many distractions and people spend so much time on the job. They’re in church more back home.” Along with her duties as First Lady, which include leading the Women's Ministry, Bangura preaches alongside her husband as co-pastor and considers herself a “prayer warrior” with a special God-given prophetic gift. “I love praying for people,”says Bangura, who works as a registered nurse. “God has given me a special discernment and vision so I am just blessed in that area. “I give 100% at everything. People can call me anytime, anywhere, any minute. I’m always running around and doing things I’m not required to do.”

In La Puente

Sunday School: 9:30 AM Early Worship: 8:00 AM Morning Worship: 11:00 AM Spanish Service: 9:30AM Bible Study: Every Wednesday 7:00 PM www.stsbc.org

Sunday School: 8:00 am Morning Worship: 9:00 am

Gospel Memorial Church of God In Christ 1480 Atlantic Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 (562) 599-7389 • F: 562-599-5779 • gospelmemorial@aol.com Bishop Joe L. Ealy Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Evening Worship: 6:30pm Wed. Intercessory Prayer: 7:00pm Wed. Pastoral teaching adults: 7:30pm Wed. Youth Ministry Boot-Camp; Youth Bible Study: 7:00pm & Choir Rehearsal: 7:30pm

Grant AME Church of Long Beach 1129 Alamitos Ave. Long Beach, CA 90813 • (562) 437-1567 grantamelb@aol.com • www.grantamelb.org Rev. Michael W. Eagle, Sr. Sun. Worship Experience: 10:45am 3rd Sun. Healing & Annointing: 10:45am Wed. Bible Study: Noon & 6pm Mothers of Murdered Youth & Children Were all receive a little attention, affection and love.

From the Pulpit of: Faithful Central Bible Church I believe in the power of the Word. I believe that your life can literally be changed because of the power of the Word of God. I have three sons– a 16-year-old, a 14-year-old and a 10-year-old. My 16 and 14-year-olds are 6'2 tall. They wear a size 14 men shoe and the 10-year-old is right behind–Jackson, Jerry Jr. and Jude. One of the ways that their size works for them is in sports. My second son–for a lot of years–baseball was his thing. Not only did he enjoy it, but he was good at it and if your kid's team has had the nerve to do well, at the end of the season, they're going to have a tournament. Well, this was one of those tournaments. We parked in the parking lot and Jerry is an outgoing son. He was so excited to get over towards the gate. We opened up the SUV, pulled out all of the gear that would be required for this next game and began to make our way over to the dugout. I'm walking behind Jerry so I can see his shoulders are back, his chin is up. He's got a real skip in his step. He's up for the challenge, but because I was behind him, I also saw his countenance change. His chin began to go down, his shoulders slumped over, the skip in his step was gone and he started looking a little concerned. I was trying to figure out what happened in the short walk from the car to the dugout. I looked around and realized we were passing a bunch of kids from another team. They were laid on the grass underneath the shade of a tree trying to rest and get ready for the next game as well. As we passed them, I realized they looked familiar. This is the team we were about to face in the next game and as I looked at this team, I realized what my son's problem was. We had faced this team earlier in the season and my kid's team had been annihilated by this team. These boys were serious baseball players– exceptional players. So, my son realizing that this was the challenge he was about to face…was intimidated. But as we walked past this team, we could overhear two of the team members talking to each other. They thought they were whispering, but one leaned over to the other and said, "There's that big kid from the Red Sox team. Is he the one at first base? "Yes, he is the one that hit the home run over the fence. That's him." “So, that's Jerry Shirer.” When my son heard his name from the lips of the opposing team members, that chin that had been hanging down all of a sudden turned back up. Because it really is amazing how your countenance changes when you overhear what the enemy thinks about you. Here is the thing. The enemy knows who you are even if you don’t. Even if you don’t believe everything the Word of God says about you, the enemy does. He knows who you have been created b y

Evangelist Priscilla Shirer

God's Spirit to be. He knows that you have been made competent by the Spirit of God. He knows that you are forgiven. He knows you've been redeemed. He knows that he can form a weapon against you, but he knows that you've already been given the victory. What a shame it would be for the enemy

New Philadelphia A.M.E. Church 6380 S. Orange Avenue, Long Beach, Ca 90805 (562)422-9300•F: (562) 422-9400 Pastor Darryl E. Walker, Senior Pastor Worship: 9:00am —1st & 5th Sunday Sunday School/New Member Classes: 8:00am 2nd thru 4th Sunday Worship:7:30 am &10:00am•Sunday School New Member Classes: 9:00am Sunday worship services streamed live on the web Pastor’s Bible Study: Wednesday Eve 7:00pm Mid-Week Bible Study: Thursday 12:00 noon www.nuphilly.org

Walking In The Spirit Ministries Double Tree (Sonoma Grill) 13111 Sycamore Drive, Norwalk CA 90650 (213) 248-6343 P.O Box 1597 Norwalk CA,90651 Tim & Leshia Brooks Morning Worship: 11:00am Services Held Every 2nd & 4th Sunday and Free Breakfast Is Served Bible Study: 8:30am (Every 5th Friday)

In Pasadena Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church 980 Rio Grande Street, Pasadena, CA 91104 *Mailing Address: 1416 N. Mentor Ave. Pasadena, 91104 (626) 794-4875 • F: (626) 794-7815 Pastor W. Harrison Trotter Sunday School: 8:30am Sunday Worship: 10:00am Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer (Fourth Wed.): 7:00pm Christians Uniting To Make A Difference -Eph. 4:13

The enemy knows who you are, even if you don’t. Even if you don’t believe everything the Word of God says about you, the enemy does...What a shame it would be for the enemy to believe more about your potential than you

First African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pasadena 1700 N. Raymond Ave, Pas, CA 91103•(626) 798-0503 admin@famepasadena.org•www.famepasadena.org Rev. Dr. Larry E. Campbell Sunday Worship Service: 5:30 am Church School: 10:00am Wed’s: • Sunrise Prayer Service: 5:30am • Hour of Power Bible Study: 10:30am • Sunset Prayer Service: 6:00pm •Evening Bible Study: 7:00pm Third Saturday Bible Study: 10:00am Children Ch 1st, 2nd, 4th Sun: 8 & 11:00am First AME Church Santa Monica In Santa Monica 1823 Michigan Ave, Santa Monica, CA 90404 • (310) 450-0331 F: (310) 450-4680 Rev. Reuben W. Ford, Pastor Sunday School: 9:30am Sunday Worship: 11:00am Bible Study/Prayer Meditation: Thursday 6pm “The Church In The Heart Of The Community with The Community at Heart” Email:famecsm@verizon.net Facebook: First AME Church Santa Monica Arise Christian Center In Westchester 6949 La Tijera Blvd. Suite C,Westchester, CA,90045 (310)568-8445•F: (310) 568-8430 • Arisechristiancenter.com Pastor Ron Taylor Morning Worship: 9:00am & 11:15am Bible Study Wednesday: 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Tuesday : 7:00pm Intercessory Prayer Sunday: 8am - 8:45am Thursday:11:30am-12:30pm

[Now] if I were your enemy, I would want to devalue in your mind the significance of what needs to be the most powerful weapon you have against me–prayer. If you tell me you want victory, but have not prioritized prayer, you will never have the victory you're looking for. Paul [also] says, if you're going to have a first line of defense against the schemes of the enemy, you've got to live right. He says, "Don’t expect that the enemy will be at bay as long as your life is creating an environment where he can thrive." There is no bondage in your life today that the Holy Spirit of God is not so powerful that He cannot loosen that shackle over your life. You've got to say, "Lord, I am a living sacrifice to believe more about your potential than you. and I present my body to you to be used for your glory." I came to speak to anybody who's got some challenges… the enemy is influencing the trouble in your life with the hopes that he can make you back down because he knows Harriot continued from page 7 that once we step up to the plate, he doesn’t have a chance. Memorial Day and bills itself as the “Heart of Dixie” is If you are a believer in Jesus Christ, you need to know essentially America’s oldest Confederate monument. Even before this controversy, during the 2018 midterm that the enemy is clear about the fact that he can no longer destroy you, but he is going to spend the rest of his time elections, Alabama quietly approved a ballot measure to and energy and trying discourage you just so that you won't amend the state constitution to “recognize and support the rise up and be who God has created you to sanctity of unborn life and the rights of unborn children, be. And I believe it is, at least, in part to including the right to life” and explicitly state that no citizen this end that the Apostle Paul writes had the right to an abortion. Women supported the amendment. Men supported it. what is one of my most impactful portion Some Democrats supported it. In fact, the only places where of scripture for me in Ephesians 6. I love the book of Ephesians. Scholars say the measure failed was in Jefferson County, home of that of all of Paul's writings (and he gave us Birmingham, one of the blackest cities in America, and a about two thirds of the New Testament) that band of counties that stretch across the state where white Ephesians really is like the cherry on top of the people are minorities. They call it the “Black Belt.” cake. If the people who are trying to criminalize women’s He wants you to know that you’ve been lavished upon with the grace and purpose of God. To know that healthcare choices were concerned about the children or the redemption is yours, that forgiveness is yours. That even if sanctity of life, they wouldn’t support the NRA, repealing you've rejected by everybody else, you've been handpicked, the Affordable Care Act, dismantling welfare or locking up immigrant children in cages. Like common-sense gun conchosen by God Almighty. Paul is just trying to figure out how will I make sure trol, immigration reform, Obamacare and a higher minimum that the enemy doesn’t con them out of the victory already wage, the overwhelming majority of Americans agree that been given to them by the blood of Jesus shed on Calvary? legal and safe abortions should be available to women. How will I make sure they don't quit no matter what kind People in favor of abortion rights come in all sexes and colof challenge is thrown down in front of their lives? Then he ors. It is not really a divisive issue except for a small subset writes these words in Ephesians 6, verse 10: "You be strong of the population. Ultimately, it is an example of identity in the Lord and in the strength of His might." He says, "Put politics at its finest. However, those who support banning abortion are not on your full armor of God, so that you may be able to stand characterized by gender, religion, geography or even party firm against the schemes." This is the first time a writer comes out directly and affiliation as much as they are defined by one thing: Whiteness. says, "You have an enemy." And he says your enemy is not the person who is sitting next to you. Your enemy is not One On One continued from page 17 your husband. Your real enemy is not your employer. The the dishes, I loved. You have to have a little bit of that in enemy is not that person or problem that is visible and tan- your nature to be that physical. Not everyone is, or can be. gible, that you can see and touch and sense with your five You might be able to act the part, but If they didn't have physical senses. that in their upbringing, they may not be following in my Paul says, "You have an enemy that is behind the scenes footsteps. Right now I see some white actresses like orchestrating some of what is happening in your life and he Charlize Theron and Rachel Weisz, who I never thought wants you to think that just because he is invisible, he would do martial arts and stunts and action movies, who must also be fictional. And just to be clear the apostle says really enjoy them. But they did say they got a couple of "owabout what kind of warfare we're dealing with. Paul says, ies," and they don't know if they will do it again. Not every"He schemes." body is rushing into doing that kind of physical work.

Through the Storm

olidays will never be the same for Lucy McBath. On November 23, 2012,her life was turned upside down as she received the phone call every parent dreads. Her son, Jordan Russell Davis, had been shot. The Atlanta-based Delta flight attendant had sent the 17-year old to live with her ex-husband in Jacksonville, Florida as she recovered from her second bout with breast cancer. “I had done all the formal raising, and we had decided it was time for him to take over and to mentor Jordan into a man,” McBath states. “The intention was is that Jordan would come back to Georgia, go to college or either go to the military, but he never made it back.” It was just one day after Thanksgiving when Davis and three other boys set out for the mall. They stopped at a gas station to get some chewing gum. The next three and a half minutes would be his last. 45-year old Michael Dunn–parked next to them at that gas station–was angered by their loud music and confronted the boys. Calling them thugs and gangbangers, Dunn demanded that they turn their music down. Jordan, who had been sitting in the back seat of his friend’s SUV, spoke up, defending their right to play music. Now irate, Dunn assumed a shooter’s stance and fired off ten rounds into the car, killing Davis instantly and injuring the three other teens. As the nation was still in the throes of the Trayvon Martin killing earlier that year, Dunn attempted to use Florida’s “Stand Your Ground” law in his defense, but the jury didn’t buy it. Instead, he was found guilty on three counts of attempted murder on the three surviving victims and sentenced to 90 years. McBath, however, wanted justice for her son as well. “We were so just taken aback. My son did not deserve to die, you know, and my son's life was just as valuable and important as anyone else,” McBath said. “What he tried to say in court is if the boys were gang bangers, that they had guns and would have their gang banger friends come and get him. But there were no guns, no alcohol, no drugs. The boys had tennis shoes and basketballs in the car. They were simply shopping on black Friday. “So, we went back to court a second time and by the grace of God, we did receive first degree murder charges for Dunn, who is now in prison for life, –no [chance at ] parole, plus an additional nine years. That is how McBath says she became an accidental activist. “I started speaking out about not only my son's murder, but the fact that I’d just watched Trayvon Martin being murdered nine months earlier and I’d had discussions with Jordan about Trayvon and why Trayvon died that way,” McBath continued. “So, I started speaking out and asking those hard questions. Where were legislators?

Why were they not fighting this fight? Where were our civic leaders? Where was the clergy? “They were all so silent and I was not going to be quiet because I'd seen this happening around the country and I was going to just demand answers and make these people accountable.” McBath was hardly a stranger to activism. As a child growing up during the civil rights movement in the 1960s, her father was the branch president of the NAACP –a position he would hold for over 40 years. McBath would peek out her bedroom door at night and watch as groups of civil rights protesters gathered in her family’s living room creating picket signs for their next march. “With my mother and father both civil rights leaders in Illinois, I was the baby in the stroller at the civil rights march,” Mcbath recalls. “I often say the first song I ever learned to sing was ‘We Shall Overcome’.” Family background coupled with tragedy made her a mom on a mission. And with the nation still reeling from the outcome of the Trayvon Martin case as well as the Sandy Hook Elementary School and Aurora Movie Theater shootings, McBath wondered how legislators could just stand by so idly while so many were being murdered by guns every day. Moved to act and armed with a strong steady faith in God, McBath quit her job at Delta and became an outreach leader for 'Everytown for Gun Safety', a movement of Americans founded by Michael Bloomberg, fighting for common-sense reforms to reduce gun violence. She would go on spend five years as the national spokeswoman for 'Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America’ and continued her advocacy by helping to defeat legislation in the Florida legislature that would expand campus carry before establishing a foundation to help high school graduates continue their education and training. In the years that followed, she would testify before Congress, appear at the Democratic National Convention, speak at rallies and advocate against gun violence in any

What he tried to say in court is if the boys were gang bangers, that they had guns and would have their other gang banger friends come and get him. But there were no guns, no alcohol, no drugs. The boys had tennis shoes and basketballs in the car. They were simply shopping on black Friday. way she could, subsequently becoming the face of gun violence. But it wasn’t until the Parkland, Florida school shooting at Stoneman Douglas High School that McBath set her sights on running for Congress. “I’d already lost the most important person in my life and I’d had enough. I had nothing else to lose and then came the Parkland shooting. Those children who were murdered were the same age as Jordan. I’d kept waiting for somebody to stand up and challenge President Trump,” says McBath. Frustrated with waiting and armed with an abiding faith in God, McBath decided to step up. The two-time breast cancer survivor and single mother –who’d taken a pay cut from Delta after the recession and would lose her only son to gun violence– never initially thought of running for office, all she kept experiencing was people saying what they were afraid of. “They were afraid of having their children not being able to have a good education,” said McBath. “They were afraid of not having healthcare benefits. They were afraid that their small businesses were not going to thrive. All I did was to say I’d been there and I will fight for you.” “If I win, that’s great,” she thought. “If I don’t win, at least I’ve done something.” Last November, McBath narrowly defeated incumbent GOP Rep. Karen Handel becoming the first representative of color to represent Georgia's 6th Congressional District–a seat long held Republicans (most notably Newt Gingrich for 20 years). This year, with the help of McBath, the House of Representatives passed HR8, the Bipartisan Background Checks Acts of 2019 which would require a background check on every gun sale between private parties. Additionally, she fought for H.R. 1112, which extends the National Instant Criminal Background Check System wait from three days to 10 business days. “What I’m doing today is still mothering Jordan’s legacy,” adds McBath of her son who would be 24-years old today. “I’m extending what I would do for my son to my community.”

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Pastor continued from page 20

Any and all messages that deal with selfesteem enhancement, because I am convinced that if you believe God has forgiven you, you have to forgive yourself, and that Christianity is based primarily on the how well and how good you feel about yourself. What’s most effective in my estimation is anything that deals with a psychological What would you add? presentation because we have a bunch of One, how to handle a scandal (laughing). people in church who are delivered, but not Then, I would like to add a health compohealed. And healing is when you feel better nent. about who you are based on your relationYou recently triumphed over prostate cancer ship with God, because I believe when a and back surgery… man meets God, he meets himself. Yes. We've got all these preachers who need their diets changed, who need to learn when to eat. Because once you make yourCharter school debate continued from page 6 self significant to a congregation and have now become the substratum for the way dents a high risk category under they think and live, you have to take care of California’s Local Control Funding your vessel. Formula. “Historically, the NAACP has been in One of your initiatives is pick up an instrustrong support of public education and has ment, not a gun… denounced movements toward privatizaPick up an instrument instead of a gun. What my initiative says is, instead of run- tion,” the California chapter of the NAACP ning to the gangs, run to a band. So, your wrote in that statement. “Considering this, band now becomes your gang and I'm start- we are concerned that charter schools in California are increasingly causing the ing a Noel Jones Learning Institute... underfunding of neighborhood schools.” And an empowerment center? Julian Heilig-Vasquez, Education Chair Yes, so I'm going to deal with that aspect of the California NAACP, argues that of violence with the kids who come there. I increased independent and private control already have a summer program where I of charter schools will lead to the re-segrefeed kids of all ages. Now I'll recruit there. gation of America’s public schools. “The California NAACP and other comWhat do the next 25 years look like? I can only go on the next five. That’s estab- munity-based activists have called upon lishing the initiatives, the school and pay- education reforms to refocus on inequities ing off this building so that the next guy rather than privatization and private conwho comes along can have a situation trol of education,” he says. Porter says he understands that the where he can grow without bottoming out. NAACP stated its opposition to charter With so many aspiring to preach like you, schools long before these bills became an what is your favorite or most effective ser- issue in California. But the arguments they mon? You’ve said you want to launch a leadership conference–why now? Hundreds of young men and women around the country are asking me for leadership in terms of their preaching, but I would add some components to it that leadership conferences don't.

are using to support their stance, have not evolved and are mostly out-of-touch with the needs of the majority of AfricanAmerican families across the state. “How are they promoting segregation when they make up less than 5 percent of all public schools in the state?” Asked Porter. “Also, by law, charter schools have to be judged on their performance every five years. District-run public schools can go on failing forever.” He said since Gov. Newsom signed SB 126 earlier this year, the state now requires charter schools to be more accountable and transparent in their operations. On Wednesday, May 22, the California Teachers Association (CTA), one of the largest unions in the state, is holding a rally in Sacramento on the steps of the State Capitol in support of the bills. They say, the event is being held “to fix the broken laws that govern charter schools.” But NAN and the NUL disagree with the NAACP and the CTA. Porter says many Black families who live in communities where traditional public schools have failed their children for decades don’t have the means to get up and move to a better school district or enroll their kids in private schools. Abortion laws continued from page 6

It is unlikely that a U.S District Court judge will not follow the Supreme Court precedent. The decisions, then, are certain to then be appealed to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court will have all eyes on them when this occurs as they decide whether to overturn Roe v. Wade. Just last week the U.S Supreme Court upheld an abortion law in Indiana that

required aborted fetuses to be disposed of in the same way human remains are. They did not, however, uphold a second provision in Indiana that would have prevented a woman in Indiana from having an abortion based on the fetus’s gender, race or disability, allowing the lower court to strike down the law. Following the mixed ruling two of the Supreme Court’s judges spoke out with their opinions on the ruling hinting perhaps at the tense abortion to come. While the official ruling was unsigned, Justice Clarence Thomas released a 20 page opinion in which he conceded that it may be too soon for the court to get involved in the abortion debate but also made clear that he sided with abortion restrictions arguing that “enshrining a constitutional right to an abortion based solely on the race, sex, or disability of an unborn child, as Planned Parenthood advocates would constitutionalize the views of the 20thcentury eugenics movement.” Thomas is referencing the practice of trying to improve the human population by eliminating “infferior” genetic traits. This argument by Thomas was quickly met with criticsm. To fellow judge Ruth Bader Ginsburg, who had written a partial dissent arguing that the court should not have allowed the fetal-remains law to go into effect because it violated women’s rights, he wrote “Justice Ginsburg’s dissent from this holding makes little sense.” Ginsburg’s reply to this was that Thomas’s remark “overlooks many things.”

SavingGrace

L.A. Focus/June 2019

hen actress Karimah Westbrook was looking for her big break, she didn’t wait for it to be handed to her-- she took it. In year 2000, when Westbrook-who was then in her early 20’s-- found out that the film “Save The Last Dance” was casting in her hometown of Chicago, she just showed up-- without a film agent or even an appointment. Despite not being exactly what the casting call was looking for, Westbrook was able to earn the part which helped jump-start her career in film and television which includes roles working alongside A-listers such as Matt Damon in “Suburbicon”, Johnny Depp in “The Rum Diary”, and in the critically acclaimed “American Violet”, among others. Now, Westbrook has added a new first to her career as a series regular on the CW’s breakout hit “All American”, which will return for its second season this fall. Westbrook says that she knew the high school football-themed drama-- which centers around a young black male from South L.A. who gets recruited to play football for a high school in Beverly Hills-- was going to be a powerful series from her first reading of the pilot script. “I loved the world that it was taking place in and I thought this show would have a strong voice,” says Westbrook. “I had a feeling that it was going to have some really good things to say and I believe the show offers a lot of different perspectives in the storylines they’ve created.” Westbrook, who is not a mother herself, plays the hard working single mother of a high school football phenom so seamlessly that fans of the show have reached out to her about how they identify with her character. “I got kids calling me mom like, ‘you remind me of my Mom’, and that’s cute-- a little weird, but cute”, says Westbrook. “I’ve been really surprised by the messages I’ve gotten from fans asking me for advice. One young lady reached out to me about some serious trauma happening in her life. It’s humbled me and made me more prayerful, because it feels like a really big responsibility and I don’t take that lightly.” She’s even had some fans give her the ultimate compliment for an actress portraying a TV mom. “A couple of times I’ve read comments that were like, ‘Best black mom since Clair Huxtable’, and that just freaked me out!”, says Westbrook. “That’s the biggest compliment ever. But really it’s just a reality check on what I’m doing, the role I’m playing and how it is touching people in a certain way I have to be mindful of.” Now that “All American” is streaming on Netflix, Westbrook is hopeful that the shows growing audience will help raise her profile for more film opportunities. “‘All American” is the biggest project I’ve worked with in a television capacity, I think it set me on the map,” says Westbrook. “I love that!” Along with the success of “All American” Westbrook is hoping that 2019 will be a big year for her as she appears

KarimahWestbrook It feels like divine timing because there's a lot of preparation involved with the industry and being able to handle it on an emotional and mental level. Now, I feel like I'm at a place where I'm mature and grounded enough to really be able to handle the workload and everything else that comes with it. in the critically acclaimed film “Bolden” which opened in early May. The dream-like biopic set in Jazz-era New Orleans, “Bolden” explores the mythical life of pioneering jazz trumpeter Buddy Bolden with Westbrook appearing as Bolden’s mother, Alice Bolden. The film-- which was over a decade in the making-- is special for Westbrook as she has been involved with the project from its beginning. “Working on “Bolden” was a great experience. I’ve been involved with the project since the film first started back in 2007,” Westbrook reports. “It was a completely different script and cast when we first started so it has a special place in my heart, because I’ve been with it so long. Our director Dan Pritzker made the movie he wanted to make and did an excellent job as far as the way he told the story which was a creative and fresh take on storytelling.” Not unlike the process of getting a ground-breaking film such as “Bolden” produced and filmed, getting Westbrook’s acting career rolling took more time and patience than she initially expected. “I wouldn’t say it’s been difficult, but it has been a process,” says Westbrook on her acting journey. “I definitely thought that things would move a lot faster than they did. I’ve been able to accomplish a lot of the goals that I set very early on for myself-- but the only thing is I thought they would happen within five years.” Though the five years Westbrook was expecting it take to achieve something like a series regular on a network TV show took closer to twenty years, she now understands that everything happens in its right time. “It feels like divine timing because there's a lot of preparation that's involved with the industry and being able to handle it on an emotional and mental level,” Westbrook adds. “Early on, I feel like I still had a lot of growing to do as a person. So now, I feel like I'm at a place where I'm mature and grounded enough to really be able to handle the workload and everything else that comes with it.” For Westbrook, acting was something that has been in her life from a very early age. She started performing for her family and in school plays at the age of five, but it wasn’t until her late teens when it occurred to her that her passion was something she could do for a living. At

the age of 22, Westbrook moved to from Chicago to L.A.- without knowing a soul in the city-- to pursue her career as actress. It was a move that brought a great deal of concern to her mother. “Initially my mother was really concerned because she didn’t know anything about the industry and it seemed like something that wasn’t really stable,” recounts Westbrook. “When I first started everyone was like, ‘what? Where are you going to work? How are you going to support yourself?’ My mom was always telling me to have a backup plan, which to me was very annoying because I felt like she didn’t believe in me-- but now I can see that she was just being protective. Now she’s very supportive. Once I started working more in L.A., that gave her a bit more ease that, ‘okay she can do this.’” Looking to the future, Westbrook-- who has produced several short films-- has made it her intention to play a more active role in acquiring new work for herself by using her creative energy. “I’m always writing, trying to create something for myself versus waiting for someone to hire me”. And through her long and unpredictable journey, it’s the confidence which has come from her faith that has been her saving grace and allowed her to persevere her way into being a successful working actress. “Faith is my foundation,” says Westbrook. “If it wasn’t for my faith, I wouldn’t still be in L.A. Faith causes me to keep growing and to believe in God and the power of His spirit, and that we’re all vessels God works through. “My beliefs keep me in the game and are my saving grace because my life experiences have revealed to me that God is real, and anything is possible. I’ve learned not to put a timetable on things and to trust in divine guidance which allows me to do anything I set my mind to in life.”